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Mark Harris

Director, Community Education, Discovery Partners Institute - University of Illinois System

Mark Harris is the Director of Community Education at the Discovery Partners Institute (DPI), which is part of the University of Illinois System. He leads the Pritzker Tech Talent Labs, focusing on developing a diverse tech workforce in Illinois through various educational programs targeting middle school to graduate-level students, as well as K-12 teachers and workforce upskilling initiatives.12

Professional Background

Before joining DPI, Harris served as the President & CEO of the Illinois Science & Technology Coalition (ISTC), where he was instrumental in connecting and advocating for the Illinois innovation community. He also played a significant role in establishing the Illinois Science & Technology Institute (ISTI), which connects high school students with industry through research and problem-based learning.1 His previous positions include serving as deputy chief of staff for the State of Illinois and associate director at the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.12

Education and Affiliations

Harris holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a master’s degree from the University of Chicago. He is actively involved in community service, serving on the board of the Albany Park Theater Project and is a member of the Economic Club of Chicago. Additionally, he is a fellow of Leadership Greater Chicago.12

Personal Background

Mark Harris is Chilean-American and fluent in Spanish, contributing to his commitment to enhancing diversity within tech education and workforce development.1

Highlights

May 16 · dpi.uillinois.edu
Discovery Partners Institute launches tech talent advisory council

Related Questions

What are the main goals of the Pritzker Tech Talent Labs?
How has Mark Harris contributed to the Illinois innovation community?
What programs does Mark Harris oversee at the Discovery Partners Institute?
How does the tech apprenticeship program at DPI work?
What is the significance of the advisory council for the Pritzker Tech Talent Labs?
Mark Harris
Mark Harris, photo 1
Mark Harris, photo 2
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Location

Chicago, Illinois, United States