Gary Johnson is a New York native, raised in East Harlem with a family lineage dedicated to public service. Gary was the Director of Strategy and Operations at the Mayor’s Office of the Chief Technology Officer on the NYCx, industry engagement program for breakthrough and emerging technology. NYCx is the first-ever municipal tech engagement program that calls on industry to develop new technologies that transform public life, spur economic growth, improve service delivery and increase digital access for all New Yorkers.

Gary believes that while technology will alter the way we live, work, and interact – emerging tech will play a vital role in unlocking the potential for economic mobility within underserved communities. Through the impact of innovative workforce programming, collaborative community lead program design, and through developing strategic partnerships across the public, private and non-profit sectors, these efforts ensure that opportunities in the tech market are equitable, and individuals are prepared for the jobs of the future.

Gary has spent over eight years working for the City of New York to advance economic development policies and programs that support communities where the needs are greatest. Gary holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Hampton University, and is a proud alumni of CORO Leadership NY, NYU Fellowship for Exploring Leaders in Public Service, New Leaders Council and most recently the Council of Urban Professionals. Gary also serves as a Junior Board member for the Food Bank for New York City, a campaign to end hunger in NYC, and My Sisters Place, an organization dedicated to ending domestic violence against women and children.