Leads Roundtable Discussion with Students, Employers, and Local Officials on Closing the Skills Gap and STEM Education

NATICK — Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg today kicked-off her statewide economic empowerment tour with visits at MathWorks and Natick High School, highlighting the work of her new Office of Economic Empowerment (OEE) as it strives to strengthen STEM education for all students and facilitate discussions around closing our Commonwealth’s skills gap to boost economic growth.

“In the 21st century, closing the skills gap is critical, not only for our students, but also for the economic health and well-being of our state,” said Treasurer Deborah Goldberg. “When we invest in our students and our workforce, we empower people to invest in themselves.”

On day one, Treasurer Goldberg created the OEE led by a deputy treasurer with the deliberate goal of incorporating a range of economic empowerment initiatives, including financial literacy, college affordability, and programming to support wage equality.

“STEM education and the programs they offer is essential to investing in our students, their future, and the Commonwealth’s future,” said Senator Richard J. Ross. “I am pleased that Treasurer Goldberg has decided to begin her statewide tour in Natick to witness the great work being done by our hardworking students and teachers.”

"STEM subjects are essential in our public schools, as they provide the foundation for future generations' success," stated Representative Linsky. "I am proud that the State and Treasurer Goldberg is highlighting their importance through vehicles such as the office of Economic Empowerment so that the Commonwealth can continue to be a leader in innovation."

MathWorks is a leading developer of mathematical computing software for engineers and scientists. Founded in 1984, the company employs more than 3,000 people in 15 countries and is headquartered in Natick. As a part of MathWorks’ social mission it focuses on sponsoring programs encouraging science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education.

OEE last week announced a statewide advisory committee on wage equality, bringing together best practices from across the state to develop innovative strategies to address the Commonwealth’s wage gap. Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh, a leader on wage equity through his Women’s Workforce Council, will serve as the honorary chair of the committee.

A businesswoman, local official and community leader, Deborah Goldberg took office in January 2015, pledging her commitment to protect taxpayer dollars, bring new levels of transparency to state government and advance policies that break down barriers and create economic empowerment.

For more information on the Office of Economic Empowerment visit www.mass.gov/treasury or by following the hashtag #EqualPayMA.