Home » Jazz News » Technology

126

Obama's New Commerce Pick Has Tech Cred

Source:

Sign in to view read count
Third time's the charm? President Obama nominated former Washington Governor Gary Locke as his pick for Commerce secretary Wednesday, a choice that drew support from the high-tech industry.

“Gary will be a trusted voice in my cabinet, a tireless advocate for our economic competitiveness, and an influential ambassador for American industry who will help us do everything we can – especially now – to promote it around the world," Obama said in a statement.

Obama previously nominated New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, but he withdrew due to a federal grand jury investigation. Obama's second choice – Republican Sen. Judd Gregg of New Hampshire – also backed out over disagreements regarding the economic stimulus package.

“Our nation's economic success is tied directly to America continuing to lead in technology and innovation and in exporting those products, services and ideas to markets around the globe," Locke said in a statement. “The Department of Commerce can and will help create jobs and the economic vitality our country needs."

Since May 2008, Locke has served as independent director of Key Technology, which designs and manufactures automated systems for the food processing and industrial markets.

Locke served as governor of Washington from 1996 to 2005. He spearheaded a number of tech-related initiatives, like a Canadian drug importation Web site and a multi-state, online Amber Alert program in 2004. Earlier in his tenure, he also helped launched the Northwest Energy Technology Collaborative (NWETC) and the Institute of Technology at the University of Washington-Tacoma.

Continue Reading...

Comments

Tags

News

Popular

Get more of a good thing!

Our weekly newsletter highlights our top stories, our special offers, and upcoming jazz events near you.