Building Pathways to Prosperity
The tech industry has faced significant changes over the last few years, from the swift rise of AI to shifting workforce needs and efforts to increase diversity. Tech bootcamps and similar upskilling programs must adapt to keep up, and Tech Impact offers a compelling case study for how to meet the needs of tech employers and workers alike.
Tech Impact provides comprehensive workforce development programs such as ITWorks, a 16-week course offered in Philadelphia, Delaware, and Las Vegas that prepares unemployed or underemployed 18-to-26-year-olds for entry-level IT careers without requiring a degree. Seventy percent of participants come from low-to-moderate income backgrounds, and 80% are women or people of color.
The organization learned there was a need for IT professionals to gain mid-level skills in order to advance in their careers. This was backed by employment data, which revealed a high demand but low supply of talent for the cybersecurity field. Employers emphasized the importance of foundational IT experience before moving into cybersecurity roles, underscoring the need for a structured career pathway.
“We heard time and time again that, even in entry-level roles, cybersecurity jobs require IT experience,” said Heidi Erpelding-Welch, Chief Program Officer at Tech Impact. “Working with our advisory boards and our students, we took a different approach than most training providers with a staggered program design.”
Tech Impact introduced ITWorks 2.0 and 3.0 in the spring of 2024. The new programs allow alumni who have gone through the original ITWorks curriculum to return after at least one year experience working in IT and apply for more advanced training in computer networking and cybersecurity. The ITWorks 2.0 and 3.0 programs feature online cohorts with the same instructors from ITWorks and additional advanced instructors, ensuring continuity and quality in education.
The demand for these advanced training programs exceeded the organization’s expectations. They set a goal to enroll at least 10 students in the initial ITWorks 2.0 and 3.0 cohorts but after just one email to alumni, they received 112 applications. The first ITWorks 2.0 cohort completed their training in April 2024 and by June, selections for the second ITWorks 2.0 were completed and the first 3.0 cohort launched.
The application process is rigorous, with an emphasis on learners’ commitment, impact, and effort. They prioritize candidates who demonstrate the ability to balance current responsibilities with the program's demands, have a clear vision of how the training will enhance their careers, and show dedication to their career path.
Tech Impact set clear and ambitious targets for success. They are aiming for a 90% completion rate for ITWorks 2.0 and 3.0, 100% participation in the national certification exams, CompTIA Network+ and Security+ and a 70% pass-rate. Additionally, six months post-graduation, Tech Impact will seek data on increased responsibility, pay raises or new job opportunities as a result of the training. They also plan to pull salary and employment data one year after graduation — advanced impact measurement work that is funded by the GitLab Foundation.
The foundation’s flexible, trust-based funding model has enabled Tech Impact to innovate and scale its programs effectively. "The support we’ve received from the GitLab Foundation and the trust they’ve given us to do this and do it right is really meaningful. They have been thought partners and true collaborators in this process." said Erpelding-Welch.
Looking ahead, one of the major benefits of the advanced training programs is the collection of longitudinal data. As alumni return for further training, they provide new employment outcomes and salary histories. This data enhances Tech Impact's ability to track the long-term success of their programs and make informed improvements.
With improved data and the extended program structure, Tech Impact plans to expand ITWorks to new locations and continue their commitment to creating sustainable career pathways for underserved populations. They are poised to not only expand their reach and impact, but also help more young adults achieve long-term economic mobility and financial security.
Return on Investment
150x ROI
This project is estimated to increase annual earnings by $20,193 per person, for a total additional lifetime earnings of $551,260 per person
Total lifetime earnings increase across all participants: $138,917,470
$200,000 invested
