Congressional Task Force on Competitiveness Events
House Democrats believe that America can and should lead the world in innovation. We’ve been at the forefront of every major technological achievement of the last century and we can continue to lead the way if we make the right investments and decisions now.
On June 15, 2010, the House Democratic Caucus Congressional Task Force on Competitiveness hosted a forum with business leaders, entrepreneurs and scientists to discuss ways to encourage American innovation and secure America’s long-term economic prosperity. “We desperately need to foster innovation which is crucial to ensuring our nation can compete in the global economy and help solve challenges we face today,” said Rep. Russ Carnahan (MO-3), a member of the Task Force.
The morning began with keynote speaker Aneesh Chopra, the nation’s Chief Technology Officer, who discussed how to use technology to tap into America’s innovative spirit.
James Campbell, President & CEO of GE Appliances & Lighting, spoke about how his company is bringing jobs back to America and enhancing the bottom line. Other panelists included Peter Cleveland, Vice President of Corporate and Legal Affairs at Intel, Peter Arapis, Director of Manufacturing Initiative at Ford, Roger Kilmer, Director of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, Rebecca Braun, President at JumpStart Ventures, and other industry leaders in manufacturing, high-tech, bio-tech, and clean-tech.
“Creating a productive dialogue between these forward-thinking employers and Congress is a key goal of this task force and a crucial element toward developing policies that will facilitate long-term economic growth and job creation,” said Rep. John Yarmuth (KY-3), a Co-chair of the Task Force.
“Companies such as JumpStart are significantly helping to put Northeast Ohio back to work and gives our communities and entrepreneurs the competitive edge in the global marketplace,” said Rep. John Boccieri (OH-16), a member of the Task Force.
Reps. Mike Michaud (ME-02) and John Yarmuth, co-chairs of the Congressional Task Force on Competitiveness, convened the forum to focus congressional efforts on the issue of America’s competitiveness in the global marketplace. The Task Force is working to advance long-term policies and initiatives that will guarantee that America’s economy will thrive for decades to come.
“Whether it’s clean energy, manufacturing, technology, bioscience or any number of industries, we must encourage Americans to remain the greatest, most innovative nation in the world,” said Task Force, Rep. Mary Jo Kilroy (OH-15).
“We will bring about good jobs and opportunities for hard-working American families while ensuring America’s continued place as a leader of the global economy,” concluded Co-Chair Rep. Michaud.
Learn more and view the list of panelists.
