Black in Tech: Cultivating Opportunity & Mentorship

Across the US, only 8 percent of employees in tech — and only 3 percent in executive positions — are Black, a 2023 State of Tech Workforce study shows. Locally, a committee of nine Black tech professionals is working alongside The Enterprise Center to change that.  

More than 70 Chattanoogans gathered recently for the first local Black in Tech panel discussion and happy hour at Waterhouse Pavilion. For panelist Malcolm Harris, Partner Success Manager for Galactic Advisors, the turnout is an indication both of potential opportunity as well as the growth of Hamilton County.  

“My heart was so full,” Harris said. “The city is changing – having Waterhouse Pavilion packed with people who look like me is indicative of the number of eager and skilled residents we already have who just need opportunity and maybe some guidance. Everything from insurance to transportation to arts to tourism involves the tech space and it’s important to understand the potential of that.” 

Panelists Chantee Boykin, an EPB senior manager, and Tremaine Powell, Ph. D., Dean of Engineering and IT for Chattanooga State Community College, agreed with Harris. 

“It’s important for girls to see someone who looks like me speaking passionately about my career,” Boykin said. “To dream it, you have to be able to visualize it.” 

A State of Tech study by CompTIA shows that the direct economic impact of the technology sector in Tennessee alone is estimated at $18.3 billion, making it imperative to address the lack of diversity now.  

For Powell, originally an aspiring professional athlete who was sidelined with an injury, understanding the range of opportunities within the tech space is also critical. In his role as dean, Powell addresses these inequalities by helping others understand the possibilities within the tech space – including future roles that may not exist yet.  

“I wish Malcolm had a Malcolm growing up. That’s why I think we’re all so eager to be that person for others – especially because it’s hard to be comfortable in a space where so many people don’t look like you,” Harris agreed. “We have the opportunity for Chattanooga to be a hub for what is to come in the tech space. Thinking about the impact on individuals as well as socioeconomically, there is just so much potential for growth. Stick around, sit tight, and get ready.” 


To get involved with future local Black in Tech initiatives or find out more, reach out to Kevin Love at The Enterprise Center at [email protected].

Other Topics

During November’s Apprenticeship Week – which formally launched a remarkable new program called Apprenticeship Works – one local woman from Unum who participated and graduated from its company’s apprenticeship program declared to a crowd of Chattanooga’s business leaders, elected officials, and…

With holidays quickly approaching, it’s time to dive into the spirit of celebration and find the perfect gift for your loved ones. As we deck the halls and spread the cheer, explore our handpicked selection of six local businesses, each offering the…

One day in high school, a man walked into Lovette Clay’s class with an offer that would ultimately change his life.  His name was Gerald Harris, principal of the Construction Career Center. He offered Lovette an opportunity unlike any other.…

In June 2023, seven graduates from Whitfield County and Dalton Public Schools celebrated their first full-time job opportunities after completing Project Purpose, a two-week workforce training program for high school graduates interested in careers with Whitfield County's leading manufacturers, organized…

The Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce's Annual Meeting, sponsored by Chattanooga Gas, celebrated the community's achievements from the past fiscal year. Charles Wood, President and CEO of the Chattanooga Chamber, kicked off the event by acknowledging the dedication of volunteers,…

In today’s rapidly changing world, it is crucial to a community’s prosperity to have a diverse industry base. As a result, some communities are reevaluating their traditional economic development models and shifting away from the industry that has defined them…

Sign up for weekly updates.