By: Matthew Kayser
Michael Ward Jr. is the president and chief executive officer of Universal Tech Movement, an organization that works to connect communities that have historically been underrepresented in the technology industry.
Discovering a Problem
When Mr. Ward began his tech career in 2015, he quickly noticed a persistent issue: very few people in the industry looked like him, and those who did often lacked the support necessary to succeed. Inspired by his upbringing and a commitment to serve his community, Mr. Ward decided to join his employer’s Black employee resource group, eventually serving as co-chair and treasurer.
This leadership role gave Mr. Ward firsthand experience in recruiting, mentoring, and developing talent from underrepresented communities. As he moved to other companies, Mr. Ward observed the same lack of access and representation across the tech sector.
Determined to address this issue, Mr. Ward began volunteering with the Austin Urban Technology Movement (AUTMHQ), now Universal Tech Movement, an organization focused on increasing access to tech careers. What began as a way to give back evolved into a leadership position. In 2019, Mr. Ward formally incorporated Universal Tech Movement and became its founding president and CEO.
“A lot of my work is about addressing gaps created by systemic racism—whether they’re opportunity gaps, economic gaps, or technological gaps,” he says.
Creating Solutions
Today, Universal Tech Movement helps individuals enter the tech industry through job placement, career development, and networking. While the organization now has a presence in 20 states and seven countries, its most significant impact remains in Austin, where it all began.
With a team of 15 and multi-million-dollar funding, Universal Tech Movement supports more than 350 clients annually. The organization offers a variety of pathways into tech, helping clients pursue careers such as IT support, project management, and software engineering.
Looking ahead, Mr. Ward is guiding Universal Tech Movement through three key initiatives.
Expanding Reach
Universal Tech Movement is working to replicate its successful Austin tech ecosystem in other communities.
“We want to build local versions of our model in cities, states, and countries where we already have participants and partners,” he explains.
This involves forming partnerships with funders, employers, and community organizations to scale the model in a way that fits each location.
Strengthening Industry Pathways
As industries across the economy become more technology-driven, Universal Tech Movement is expanding its career pathways to include roles in manufacturing, semiconductors, healthcare, and finance.
“We’re helping people understand how tech careers exist in every sector,” Mr. Ward says.
Building Business Partnerships
Companies are increasingly turning to Universal Tech Movement to train and upskill employees from within their ranks. In response, the organization is broadening its mission to support businesses in increasing productivity, cybersecurity, and revenue through targeted workforce development and employer partnerships.
Seeing Results
Universal Tech Movement’s impact speaks for itself. In 2024 alone, the organization helped 127 individuals secure tech jobs and increased participants’ average salaries by approximately $40,000 annually. By connecting people to training and job opportunities, Universal Tech Movement is contributing to a more diverse and accessible technology industry and encouraging economic mobility.
Mr. Ward’s work has contributed to reshaping the tech landscape in Texas and is having an influence on broader conversations about equity in the industry.
“Innovation begins when all communities have a seat at the table,” he says. “At Universal Tech Movement, we’re redefining tech by expanding access, building skills, and creating space for new voices to lead.”
In recognition of his work, Mr. Ward was recently included in Marquis Who’s Who for his contributions to technology and community advancement. Under his leadership, Universal Tech Movement continues to grow as a notable force for equity, empowerment, and lasting change.
About Marquis Who’s Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who’s Who in America®, Marquis Who’s Who® has chronicled the lives of many accomplished individuals and innovators from diverse fields, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion, and entertainment. Who’s Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for researchers, journalists, librarians, and executive search firms worldwide. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who’s Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice or endorsement. Any claims or statistics referenced are not guaranteed.
