WASHINGTON, D.C. and ARLINGTON, VA – The board of directors of AeA and the Information Technology Association of America (ITAA) announced the two trade associations will combine their memberships and programs to form The Technology Association of America.

The merger is scheduled to be final by the end of the year. It will bring together technology companies throughout the United States and provide a stronger voice for the industry. Approximately 2,000 companies will be represented by the organization. It will advocate on technical issues on the state level, as well as provide programs.

AeA’s network of regional councils will combine with ITAA’s alliances with over 16,000 companies through 40 regional associations with the Technology Councils of North America. The Technology Association of America will use that network to form a united federal lobbying effort in Washington. In addition, through an exclusive membership in the World Information Technology and Services Alliance, there will be a global network of 69 technical associations.

“For all of its impact on everyday life, the technology industry has had insufficient clout in Washington and the state capitals –until now,” said ITAA chairman Hank Steininger. “Together, our associations will become the clear leader, continuing a chain of consolidation that ITAA began in January.”