People

Kimberly Allen, associate dean of academic affairs on the Lake Worth campus, has been picked to serve on the board of a budding nonprofit membership group focused on making Palm Beach County a premier technology and innovation hub by 2030.

Allen, who oversees associate degree and College Credit Certificate programs in business and computer science, says her role as an ex-officio member of the Palm Beach Tech Association Board of Directors, will provide broader access to information technology industry heavy hitters and help the College stay abreast of current and emerging trends.

“This is exciting knowing how critical preparing all of our students in the area of information technology is to preparing them for the workforce, regardless of their major,’’ said Allen, who represents education partners.

The Palm Beach Tech Association launched in 2015 and has grown to 158 corporate members this year, more than double last year’s number. It boasts NextEra Energy and Office Depot, Palm Beach County’s Fortune 500 companies, among its active members. The association also founded the Palm Beach Tech Space, a 3,500 square foot coworking space in downtown West Palm Beach with a grant from the James S. and John L. Knight Foundation.

As a countywide trade association, Palm Beach Tech promotes software, engineering, digital and information technology growth by working with education, government entities and business groups to support the goals of member companies.

Allen said the group already has identified six to eight industry leaders who could serve on the PBSC Business Partnership Council for her programs. In addition, she will get updates on internship and job opportunities.

“The biggest value that I see added is the placement of students in internships and jobs, and the students getting opportunities to interact with industry leaders,’’ she said.