Zoë Baird has been appointed senior counselor to the secretary for technology and economic growth.
She will concentrate on boosting nationwide apprenticeship and employer-based training programs, according to a Sept. 27 news release.
“Zoë brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in workforce development, technology and civil rights through an incredibly accomplished career,” Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said in the release. “Zoë will be instrumental in implementing the department’s vision to ensure America remains competitive in the 21st century by strengthening our workforce, advancing key technologies and prioritizing equity. I’m thrilled to have Zoë join our team.”
Baird’s duties include ensuring everyone benefits economically from emerging innovations, including small and medium-sized businesses, and improving American competitiveness in vital technologies, the release reported.
She expressed her gratitude in joining the Commerce Department, according to the release.
“I share President Biden and Secretary Raimondo’s vision for a nation that’s at the forefront of science and technology and has the workforce prepared to participate in high-growth industries in America,” Baird said in the release. “I look forward to working with the dedicated team at the department and to contributing to their efforts to create a more inclusive economy.”
She served as the Markle Foundation's CEO and president for more than 20 years, during which time she also sat on the board of directors, the release reported. She founded Lawyers for Children America, an organization that recruits and trains attorneys in private practice and corporate legal departments to represent abused children, while serving as senior vice president and general counsel at Aetna Life and Casualty Company, where she previously held positions.
