EU-US Talent for Growth Task Force: Executive Vice-President Vestager and Commissioner Schmit attend first meeting

Today, Executive Vice-President for a Europe Fit for the Digital Age, Margrethe Vestager, and Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, Nicolas Schmit, will participate virtually in the first meeting of the EU-US Talent for Growth Task Force.

The Task Force was established with a one-year mandate as part of the EU-US Trade and Technology Council to (1) share best practices, policies, tools and data for talent development; (2) promote innovative approaches to skills for economic growth and opportunities for workers; and (3)  inspire training programmes for EU and US companies, including small and medium-sized businesses. It brings together representatives of EU and US governments, businesses, trade unions and training providers.

The Task Force will present recommendations to drive the development of talent and skills needed for existing and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and extended reality. This meeting will identify common challenges and establish priorities for the Task Force’s work on both sides of the Atlantic.

The Task Force’s activities will contribute to the European Year of Skills by supporting efforts in effectively preparing people for the skills needs of a changing labour market.

Executive Vice-President Vestager said: “While digital technology offers vast opportunities for individuals and businesses, it’s important that these opportunities are realised in a fair and inclusive way. The Talent for Growth Task Force will combine experiences from both sides of the Atlantic and promote the development of the talent and skills needed to achieve it.”

Commissioner Schmit said: “Skills are essential for the success of the digital transition. Yet, 70% of businesses in the EU say that the lack of workers with digital skills is an obstacle to investment. It is therefore essential to tackle labour shortages and empower workers with the skills needed to thrive in the green and digital transition. In view of the pressing need to make progress, I believe we can learn a lot from each other in this forum.”