New York City has launched its first-ever Information Technology (IT) Management Academy to help upskill city tech leaders.
According to an Aug. 14 press release from the NYC Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI), the academy’s curriculum will center around strengthening managerial skills, enhancing strategic thinking, and deepening understanding of citywide technology operations.
Twenty-seven public sector professionals, either in a director-level role or higher, from 19 diverse city entities will participate in the program over the next three months. The NYC OTI is covering the full program cost for the initial cohort.
“Success comes from sharing proven wisdom and insights,” said NYC Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Matthew Fraser. “When the city develops an expertise, a path, and a process, the goal is to then disseminate that knowledge throughout city government. The IT Management Academy aims to do just that.”
“This first class will absorb new information and then return to their home agencies to continue to raise the standards and abilities across the city,” Fraser added.
Academy participants were chosen by OTI and the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) from more than 100 nominations. The departments said they evaluated the nominees based on “leadership potential and impact to their current role, commitment to public service, strong communication, collaboration skills, and agency support.”
The IT Management Academy – which started on Aug. 14 and runs until Oct. 30 – will focus on three areas: developing and utilizing human resources, understanding the operational aspects of city systems and processes, and learning best practices from IT executives.
Participants will learn about topics such as leading high-performing teams, bolstering emotional intelligence, aligning tech with business goals, and leveraging effective communication.
“Our city’s digital infrastructure is only as strong as the people who manage it, and that’s why we’re proud to partner with OTI on this first-of-its-kind program that builds on DCAS’ longstanding commitment to developing public sector leadership,” said DCAS Commissioner Louis A. Molina.
“As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, we must evolve as well; the IT Management Academy will empower participants with the tools, insights, and network needed to drive innovation, improve service delivery, and better meet the needs of New Yorkers in a digital age,” Molina said.
