FALL 2023 california
ORDER OF CEREMONY CALIFORNIA
WELCOME REMARKS Bertha Haro
Executive Director, NPower California
ALUMNI SPEAKER Jason Bush
US Air Force, NPower California Tech Fundamentals Fall 2016 Senior Desktop Support Technician, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
CLASS SPEAKER Chanae Pickett
NPower California Tech Fundamentals Fall 2023 U.S. Navy Veteran
PRESENTATION OF CLASS AWARDS Bertha Haro
Executive Director, NPower California
KEYNOTE SPEAKER Chandler Malone CEO, Path AI
PROGRAM COMPLETION CERTIFICATE CEREMONY Corey Hashimoto
Recruitment and Admissions Manager, NPower California
Mikala Hughes
Social Support Manager, NPower California
CLOSING REMARKS Bertha Haro
Executive Director, NPower California
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OUR STORY NPower is a nonprofit rooted in the community and committed to advancing race and gender equity in the tech industry through skills training, real-world experience, support, and mentorships. The organization has helped young adults from underserved communities and veterans move from poverty to the middle class by training them with a range of tech skills and placing them in quality jobs. Students who enter our free training programs earn industry-recognized certifications and graduate with the competencies of an IT professional with one to two years of experience. NPower also places students in paid internships and apprenticeships with corporate and nonprofit organizations. Eighty percent of NPower graduates get a full-time job or continue their education. NPower is a vital solution towards bridging the national talent gap that exists in the high-growth technology industry. Over the past decade, NPower has expanded its program reach and developed a robust network of Fortune 500 companies, mid-sized enterprises, government agencies, staffing firms, and a network of nonprofit partners that host its interns and hire its graduates full-time. To learn more about NPower, visit npower.org.
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NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS Matt Horner, CHAIR
Ami Desai
Diane Schwarz
Gail Fierstein, VICE CHAIR
Guillermo Diaz, Jr.
Dwight D. Shepherd
Steve Murphy, SECRETARY
Michael Fey
Executive Vice President World Wide Technology, Inc.
Director, Office of the CEO Vista Equity Partners
SVP, Global Head of People CaaStle
Founder and CEO Conectado, Inc.
Sr. Managing Director, Financial Services Industry Solutions Lead Accenture
Viola Maxwell-Thompson, TREASURER
CEO Emeritus Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF)
Michael Fugett, BOARD OBSERVER
Co-Founder & CEO Island
Keir D. Gumbs
General Counsel Edward Jones
Kateau James
Global Chief Operating Officer Deloitte Technology
U.S. ARMY, NPower TX Graduate VP, Production Management Citi
Tony Kerrison
Luisana Estevez, BOARD OBSERVER
Jennifer Kleinert
NPower NY Graduate | VP, Data Center Production Operations Engineer Meta
Gerald Charles Jr.
VP and Head of Product for Omni Customer Servicing Capital One
Dean Del Vecchio
EVP, Chief of Operations and CIO The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America
Chief Technology Officer Bank of America Chief Operating Officer, Enterprise Infrastructure Operations & Technology Citi
Mark Patterson
VP, Chief Information Officer Johnson Controls Director, Federal Government Client Relations REAR ADMIRAL (RETIRED) IBM
Anupam Singhal
President, Manufacturing Tata Consultancy Services
Josh Sutton
Chief Executive Officer Agorai
Peter Trizzino
President, North America Sales Dell Technologies
Sangy Vatsa
Founder Digital Insights, LLC
Bertina Ceccarelli
Chief Executive Officer NPower
SVP, Chief of Staff to Chair & CEO Cisco Systems
Frank Pedersen
Digital Transformation Executive
David Reilly
Tech Executive
REGIONAL ADVISORY BOARD Eddie Borrero
Troy Johnson
Thao Nguyen
CISO Blue Shield of California
Managing Director, Western Regional Technology Deloitte
Senior Vice President & Group Manager Comerica Bank
Ed Morales
Founder Thruline Networks
Jim Wong Chairman of the Board National Veterans Transition Services
Chief Information Security Officer Royal Business Bank
Phil Dillard
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KEYNOTE SPEAKER Chandler Malone CEO, Path AI
Chandler has been focused on helping people reach their economic potential throughout his entire career via his work at Bootup and The Family. In Chandler’s three years as the CEO of Bootup, the company helped thousands of people get their first jobs in tech for over $200M in annualized salaries at companies like JP Morgan Chase, Home Depot, Mailchimp, Cerner, and more. Chandler is also the founder of The Family, a venture studio focused on Black and Brown founders. Over the past four years, The Family has invested in 10 Black and Brown founders with an estimated market cap of over $300M.
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ALUMNI SPEAKER Jason Bush
US Air Force NPower California Tech Fundamentals Fall 2016 Senior Desktop Support Technician, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory “NPower was all things positive for me. The sense of community that my cohort had with one another was uplifting.”
CLASS SPEAKER Chanae Pickett
NPower California Tech Fundamentals Fall 2023 U.S. Air Force “I have been inspired with a new sense of purpose and forged partnerships to propel my career through the NPower program. I believe this is one of the most impactful decisions I’ve made since choosing to serve my country.”
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KEY CLASS STATISTICS Tech Fundamentals Fall 2023
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81%
GRADUATION RATE
70%
BLACK, INDIGENOUS, AND PEOPLE OF COLOR
39%
VETERANS & SPOUSES
28% WOMEN
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GRADUATE BIOS
Carlos Aleman, 25 San Jose, CA
Geoffrey Ashton, 26 San Jose, CA
Before NPower, I worked in retail for six years, going
Growth: a simple word with major implications. My
through leadership position after leadership position, but
work history began with many ventures into retail,
it was not what I wanted to do long-term. Since I was
manufacturing, and manual labor. While each experience
little I was always interested in technology and sought to
had many positive points and a few unique cons, the
create a career; however, throughout high school, I had
shared point that each position lacked was room for
to make ends meet and find a job. That’s when a friend
growth. Through NPower, however, I have found a much
introduced me to NPower and told me how the program
bigger pot to grow in with technology! I could spend an
helped launch his sister’s IT career. I knew I needed to
eternity learning about all of the intricacies concerning
apply to this program to return to what I was passionate
computing and its innumerable applications, and that is
about. NPower was an opportunity I wanted to strive for.
just the way I like it. After graduating from NPower, I plan
I learned what I wanted to do and how to achieve it using
to make full use of the opportunities they have afforded
their professional development course; my resume and
me. I want to obtain as many certifications as possible
interview skills were honed, and I am ready to use them to
that NPower will allow me to complete. While my focus
transition into a career in the tech field.
will be on data analytics, I relish the thought of delving deep into networking, cloud computing, and cyber security as well! Thank you, NPower!
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Charles Bain
US Army San Francisco, CA
Ellison Bernabe US Marine Corps San Francisco, CA
I am a strategic-thinking, solutions-oriented project
Before NPower, I was a government contractor working
manager with over fifteen years of experience leading
side by side with people in diverse tech fields, from
digital and integrated projects and programs. I’ve adeptly
engineering to cybersecurity. During my time in the
led workflow and delivery, managing risk and expectations
United States Marine Corps, I interpreted/translated
through effective communication with internal teams,
Russian, Tagalog, and various other dialects to support US
clients, and stakeholders. I proactively ensure user and
forces operating in the Pacific.
business requirements and goals are translated into projects with a well-defined scope, timing, and success metrics. Passionate about acquiring and leveraging new technology skills, I am currently working to complete the Google IT Support Certificate course with NPower while working full-time in an administrative role with the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency’s Finance and Information Technology team. I am excited to leverage
I believe a career in IT can help people from underserved communities by giving them a chance to learn in-demand skills. After just a few short weeks with NPower, I’m able to walk someone through the assembly of a computer confidently, software included, and able to pass industryrecognized certification exams that will open doors for a myriad of career opportunities.
the IT skills I am learning alongside my experience in
In one year, I see myself as a full-time Deloitte employee
project management and operations to excel in a stable,
after starting as an IT intern. In 3 years, I see myself
rewarding role in the SF Bay Area or California.
working as a cybersecurity specialist for a big company like Microsoft, Apple, or Google. I see myself constantly learning and acquiring as many certificates as I can get my hands on. I would not be the man I am today if it weren’t for the experiences I’ve had in my life, and I’m forever grateful for everything I’ve accomplished and will accomplish in the future.
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GRADUATE BIOS
Stephen Brown San Jose, CA
Arabella Grace Casiano, 21 Davis, CA
Prior to Npower, I was a Jr. IT Systems Administrator.
Growing up, I was always drawn to technology, though
I specialized in end-user support, user administration,
my career path remained uncertain. During my time at UC
network maintenance, and troubleshooting. A few years
Davis, I studied Psychology, Cinema, and Digital Media,
into working as a sysadmin, I was diagnosed with a rare
which deepened my interest in technology. However, the
eye condition called Cone Dystrophy. I worked with
program’s focus wasn’t on tech. This led me to NPower,
local non-profits such as the Vista Center and the State
where I delved into it further. They not only taught me
of California’s Department of Rehabilitation to retrain
essential skills but also provided a supportive community.
with low vision. Once I became comfortable with using
A pivotal moment was realizing that just having technical
the adaptive software available for visual impairments I
skills wasn’t enough; I needed to present them effectively.
enrolled with the NPower Tech Fundamentals program.
Learning how to craft a compelling resume and use
The NPower program has given me the training and
LinkedIn made a significant impact. NPower consistently
guidance I needed to earn two IT certifications. I am now
challenges me to grow, and I’m thrilled to continue in the
prepared to get back into the workforce and am looking
field of Cybersecurity with their guidance. I’m eager to
forward to being in the IT field again.
refine my skills in this dynamic field, and I approach this new chapter with a sense of promise and determination. With NPower by my side, I’m confident in facing the exciting journey ahead, knowing I have the support and education I need to succeed.
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Salvador Castaneda US Army Richmond, CA
Kristian Casupanan, 23 San Jose, CA
Prior to NPower, I had just graduated from San Jose
Before NPower, I carved out a career path in business,
State University with a Bachelor of Science in Justice
program, and project management, focusing on climate
Studies with a Concentration in Criminology. With the
change’s economic and social impact on marginalized
world growing much more dependent on the usage of
communities. After military service, I was a criminal justice
technology, I found it important to shift my focus toward
NGO and became a business manager and business and
the tech field. I was introduced to NPower by my older
product development specialist for projects and for-profit
sister, who had previously been enrolled in this program.
businesses.
After seeing the many benefits that this program provided
NPower helped me redefine and express my goals to highlight my skills, experience, and immediate value for prospective employers. The technology fundamentals program elevated my knowledge of how IT can be used to solve climate-related science problems with existing technology tools.
for my sister, she was able to begin a career in the IT world after not finding success obtaining a job after graduating college. I was able to accomplish and earn a certificate in CompTIA ITF+ and Google IT Support through the guidance of this program. With my new skills, I plan to pursue the tech field even more, learning more about cybersecurity. Upon my apprenticeship completion, I was
I was referred to NPower by Work for Warriors. NPower
able to earn an opportunity to intern as an IT Support at
opened the prospect for me that I could leverage my
Deloitte through the NPower program.
social and business experience in the IT sector with companies offering emerging Climate Tech Innovations. I plan to secure a business analyst, program, or project management position and pursue the study of Data Science to expand my employment value. NPower challenged me, I found new skills and polished old ones, and I hope to leverage my skills to further innovation in climate technology.
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GRADUATE BIOS
Leon Chung, 24 San Jose, CA
Alissa Cuason, 25 Hayward, CA
Before NPower, I was a college student who had no idea
Prior to NPower, I worked 12-hour shifts and was
what he wanted but dreamed of breaking into IT. However,
struggling to find a career. I have always been interested
life led me in a different direction. I found NPower, a
in cybersecurity, but I didn’t know where to begin. What
program that ignited my interest in technology despite
brought me to NPower was a comment on Reddit. I’m
my lack of IT knowledge. During my NPower journey,
grateful to the NPower staff for providing us with the
I realized the transformative potential of technology.
resources, opportunities, and real-life experiences to help
NPower represented a fresh start and a chance to
me get my foot in the door. The NPower program gave
explore a newfound passion. A standout project involved
me the knowledge and confidence I needed for interviews
creating a mobile app to enhance educational access
and a tech career. After graduation, I plan to study for
for underserved communities, demonstrating the
Security+ and work in an entry-level position.
power of tech. The program not only equipped me with technical skills but also provided invaluable professional development and mentorship, setting me on a successful path in tech. Looking ahead to my post-NPower future, I envision a fulfilling tech career focused on developing innovative solutions to address real-world issues and bridging the digital divide to make technology accessible to all. If I had a superpower, it would be the ability to inspire others. To my younger self, I would advise staying open to new opportunities and not being afraid to pivot when discovering one’s true passion. While the journey may be unexpected, it can lead to a meaningful and fulfilling career.
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Ramon Dixon
Morde Ehrenfeld
Before NPower, I was Looking for an opportunity in Tech.
Before NPower, I was enjoying retirement after a career as
The day I watched my daughter come into the world,
a limousine driver for 30+ years and time in the US Navy.
I realized I could no longer care about only myself; my
Over COVID-19, I drove Uber and Lyft to do something
daughter needed her Pa to take care of her and protect
on the side. Prior to my career as a limousine driver, I
her. I volunteered for the Marine Corps, and it was a
served in the Navy as an Electronic Technician, working
hard four years of overtime for free. During my military
on surface ships. After the Navy, I went to the City College
service, I did Infantry as a United States Marine, and I
of SF and got an AS degree in electronics, after which I
learned to win and be determined to survive. I decided
went to work in Southern California at Controlled Data,
to learn Tech when I realized that it is the direction that
repairing circuit boards and disk drives. I recognized I
the world is moving towards. It has been fun learning
wanted to try something different and moved back to
with NPower, although sometimes a little challenging. I
Northern California, finding a career in limousine driving.
enjoyed professional development; we learned a few tips
I came to NPower because I wanted to tap back into
and tricks of the game that I never knew about, and it is
the technical abilities that I began learning in the Navy.
exciting to put it to use. In four years, I see myself doing
During NPower, I enjoyed learning about computers
what needs to be done as a father, and I am thankful for
and new terminology, along with career pathways from
my time at NPower.
professional development. I believe tech can help people
US Marine Corps Alameda, CA
US Navy Oakland, CA
start a real career versus a job. In the next 1 to three years, I see myself working in a new IT role or in junior college, learning more about technology.
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GRADUATE BIOS
Kaitlyn Gardner US Navy Vacaville, CA
Thomas Groff US Marine Corps San Diego, CA
When I was growing up, I had so many different goals
Information Technology fascinates and excites me. As a
in mind! I really was not sure what my plans were when
Marine, my job included duties as the on-site IT contact.
I became an adult other than one thing: I really wanted
Even before my time in service, I helped people set up
to help people. It has always been my passion, and it’s
computers and peripherals. In my successive positions of
one of the main reasons I joined the Navy. During my
employment, I have performed IT Support duties, but I had
time in the Navy, I had the opportunity to learn how to
no certifications. Though most of my last 10 years in the
make a positive impact on others. Technology plays a
copier industry have been spent in logistics, the last three
crucial role in everything, and it dawned on me while
years have seen me in a network operations role that
enlisted; what better way to help the most I can than
included help desk support. I discovered NPower almost
through technology. I was first introduced to NPower by
two years ago via a VA newsletter. At the time, I couldn’t
a classmate while in college. They explained how NPower
commit to the time needed. I was laid off in Jan ‘23, so I
teaches the basics of technology and also offers valuable
reached out. NPower folks responded almost immediately
life skills that can really boost professional development.
and made every effort to expedite my enrollment.
After completing the program, I feel so much more knowledgeable and confident now, not just in my tech skills but also in my interpersonal skills. NPower has done an amazing job of providing me with the skills and knowledge I need to confidently tackle any challenges that come my way!
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Although my prior experience will be helpful in obtaining a tech role, many job postings require formal training, often preferring certifications. NPower has provided me with the formal training to achieve the certifications that I need to pursue an IT career. With my new skills and certifications, I will continue pursuing a meaningful career in the IT sector.
Javier Guerra, 25 Stockton, CA
Brian Gutierrez, 21 Gilroy, CA
Before NPower, I worked as a Software Developer for
Before Npower, I was trying to find my lifelong career
Bitwise, but then Bitwise went bankrupt, and I lost my
while working full-time. While at my job, our IT Support
job. I heard about NPower through Work for Warriors. I
Technician talked to me about how he got into IT Support
eventually applied to expand my network and learn more
through NPower, and to me, it sounded very interesting.
about IT. My time at NPower was great, and I learned a lot,
While being in school previously, I received multiple
met a lot of great people and professional development,
certificates for perfect attendance and knew I had what
assisted me with my resume, and gave me great feedback
it took to complete the program. I knew I wanted to be
to fuel my job search. After I finish NPower, I want to work
involved in tech because I enjoyed trying to fix problems
as a Software Developer and eventually work my way up
on my own computer and mobile devices at a young age.
to become a Senior Developer or Project Manager.
In a year, I see myself as a NPower Graduate and sharing my knowledge with those who will be needing my help to assist them with any issue they approach.
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GRADUATE BIOS
Nouha Hassani, 18 Fremont. CA
Before NPower, I volunteered at MidPen’s nonprofit after-
Rudy Hernandez US Navy Gilroy, CA
school program, where I assisted children ages 5-12
Before NPower, I was A graphic designer for a print shop
with their homework and spent quality time with them
in San Antonio. I served in the US Navy for eight years
playing games and helping them read. I obtained my high
as a medical technician. Serving in the military taught
school diploma despite spending a whole year at home
me leadership skills and how to triage during stressful
due to COVID, and although I am proud that I was able
situations. During my time as a graphic designer, I
to overcome my personal struggles at a time when I felt
learned more about people skills on my journey and
things wouldn’t get any better, I knew that I wanted to
had the opportunity to further my career as a project
make a change in my life. I knew that I was interested
manager. During that time, IT piqued my interest, and
in tech, but I didn’t know where to start. I learned about
I was in search of a way to complete my goal. NPower
the NPower program and thought it was the perfect
and their team have helped me immensely to reach my
opportunity to see if I would enjoy a career in tech. During
goals and paved the way to gaining certifications. During
my NPower training, my favorite subject to learn about
my NPower training, learning the fundamentals was
was cybersecurity because it opened my eyes to things I
my favorite part. We all have to start somewhere, and
never knew about. Now that I am graduating, I am excited
learning the basics is what has helped me understand my
to see where my NPower journey takes me.
goals and where I want to go in the IT field. The NPower professional development team has helped me spruce up my resume so that I could find a proper career in the IT industry. Within a year or so, I would like to be running my own IT department, and possibly within three to four years, running my own IT firm.
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Jian Herrera, 20 Napa, CA
Before NPower, I was a college student while working
Heather Hillmer US Airforce San Francisco, CA
part-time. I worked previously for 6 months to get into
Before Npower, I was doing odd jobs here and there
the Air Force but left Basic Training due to asthma. While
but really had no career path. In the military, I was a
I was still young and going to College, I realized that I had
mechanic, Training Lead, and Quality Assurance inspector,
not been putting in my best effort since Basic Training.
and I worked in database integrity. What brought me
I felt lost; I needed something to spark my motivation,
to NPower was a desire to learn. I have wished for and
and that’s when I looked for paths that combined both
wanted a place in the technology field, but it felt nearly
my wants and needs; that answer was tech. I’d wanted
impossible or too far-fetched; there was no path that
to learn tech as a child when my father spoiled me with
seemed real or accessible. My time at NPower gave me
technological gadgets, but it was NPower that solidified
skills, knowledge, and the confidence to own what I know
my goals.
so that I can share it with the world. NPower also gave me
During my NPower training, my favorite part was collaborating with my fellow trainees. The instructors were very hospitable while maintaining a professional relationship. I was introverted and feared public speaking, but professional development truly elevated my
the opportunity to break through self-imposed limitations. With my new skills, I plan to create a new career path for myself. I hope to work providing IT support in Health education, work with a Veteran’s nonprofit, or as a mentor for other folks on their tech journey.
communication skills. After NPower, I see myself finishing my Computer Science degree with more confidence, and later working at a company that may become a stepping stone for my tech career. I hope to be a professional, someone who uses tech to help myself and others, and someone who becomes successful not only for myself but for my family as well.
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GRADUATE BIOS
Guangfeng Jin US Navy Cerritos, CA
Raees Khan, 24 Lodi, CA
Prior to NPower, I was feeling very confused about my life.
Before NPower, I was a truck driver. My proudest
I didn’t know whether to work or to pursue college full-
accomplishment was my decision to join the US Navy
time. After switching majors a handful of times, I knew it
and my 5 years of active-duty military life. Serving in the
was time for a different route, and I wanted to be around
military as an Aviation Support Equipment Technician,
technology. I came across NPower while researching the
I learned how teamwork—one team, one fight—gets
web for technology programs, and the opportunity was
missions accomplished successfully. I decided I wanted
too good to pass up. What brought me to NPower was
to be involved in tech because working with computers
everything they offer; it sounded like a fairytale story.
putting hardware together to build computers, was my
All the opportunities that NPower has to better yourself
hobby and my first job. One of my Navy friends showed
in every aspect of life were what intrigued me the most.
me the NPower website and after researching, I was very
Now that I’m graduating, I am excited to see where my
excited and decided to pursue tech and turn my hobby
NPower journey takes me.
into a career. Professional Development really helped me to learn how to write a resume, and I had a chance to talk to tech companies which improved my interview skills. I believe that technology can provide access to quality education, regardless of geographical location. Online courses and e-learning platforms like NPower can help individuals gain new skills and knowledge, improving their employability and economic opportunities. After obtaining my CompTIA ITF+ certification, I’m hoping to pursue a Network+ certification. With all the skills I learned from NPower, I hope to find a good job and continue learning and growing.
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Hayal Kollech San Jose, CA
I had been looking for opportunities to start a career in
Johnathan Langston US Marine Corps San Francisco, CA
the IT field prior to NPower. Most of the colleges I have
Before NPower, I had a fulfilling career as an electrical
applied to either require a lot of money or a significant
designer but had to change due to my disability. I knew
amount of time to start class. Luckily for me, I was
I needed to learn new skills so I could transition into a
introduced to NPower during a job fair event here in San
new career. I heard about the NPower program through
Jose. Even though I hesitated at first, I followed up with
a Veteran’s resource program, and since I’ve always
the program and was accepted for the Fall 2023 semester.
been interested in IT and technical infrastructure, I
During this time, not only have I learned a lot about IT Fundamentals, but the program helped me unleash my inner potential in education in general. Thanks to the instructors, the Professional Development team members,
enthusiastically joined up. I’m now fully certified with Google IT Support, CompTIA ITF+, and CompTIA A+, and I look forward to further training or maybe even a direct job placement. We will see. The future looks bright!
and Social Support Managers, I have enjoyed every bit of my experience thus far. I managed to complete ITF+ and Google IT Support Certifications. I am actively looking for any internship or entry-level job opportunities while waiting for NPower’s response to my application to join the advanced course in Cybersecurity. What an awesome experience I have had!
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GRADUATE BIOS
Orion Laverine, 20 Santa Rosa, CA
Prior to NPower, I was a college student who was not on
Sung Min Lee
US National Guard Los Angeles, CA
a career path that worked for me. I was finding myself
Before I joined NPower, I joined the National Guard Army
not enjoying the engineering program at the University of
on October 7th, 2021, after graduating from Woodbury
Colorado Boulder. What brought me to NPower was my
University. After I came back from training, I acquired
interest in computers. I have been familiar with computers
citizenship on August 29th, 2022. From mid-October
for all my life, and internet technology interested me.
2022 to the present, I have worked as an Assistant Media
My time at NPower gave me crucial information about
Director at Veniroe Inc. I was introduced to NPower from
professionalism and internet technology. With the help
my unit’s group chat. I decided to join NPower to enhance
of the NPower program, I was able to refine my resume
my knowledge and skills with certificates in order to be
and interviewing soft skills, as well as bolster my technical
more prepared to dive into the computer technology field.
knowledge. After graduation, I plan to find a job so I
With my new skills, I plan to apply for various jobs and
can launch my career in management in the Internet
work on new projects. In addition, I am going to apply for
technology world.
NPower’s Cybersecurity course.
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Evelyn Lopez, 24 Los Angeles, CA
Before NPower, I was a recent graduate with a bachelor’s
Erika Lopez-Vasquez US Army Reserves Redwood City, CA
degree in computer science. Even though I was applying
I used to believe that changing my career was a distant
to tech jobs, I was always met with rejections, and I
dream, and I felt unhappy working in an environment
thought I was not made for a tech career. I decided to
that offered me neither enjoyment nor growth. However,
start working temporarily as a general clerical to have a
I eventually came to the realization that life is too short
small sense of purpose. When I heard about NPower from
to carry regrets, and I decided it was time to embark on
Unite-LA, I thought this was a perfect place to continue
a new chapter in my life. To initiate my journey into the
where I left off in my tech career journey. During my time
tech field, I enlisted in the military as an IT Specialist.
here at NPower, I’ve gained further knowledge on the
I would then volunteer at the VA Palo Alto hospital in
technical side as well as in professional networking. I was
their IT department, where I first learned about NPower.
also introduced to many other tech career positions that
Upon discovering NPower, my excitement grew, and
may be of interest to me and this has made me realize
I recognized it as a significant stepping stone toward
where I want to go. NPower provided sufficient resources
achieving my career aspirations. NPower has helped me
and support throughout the program, and I feel I have
grow professionally and provided me with the invaluable
gained back my confidence to start applying to tech jobs
opportunity to connect with a network of like-minded
again.
individuals who share my passion for technology and career development. I am grateful to NPower and its dedicated staff for helping me believe in my ability to attain my long-term goal: becoming a Network Engineer.
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GRADUATE BIOS
Zackery Lozano, 18
Landen Manuel, 22
As a kid, I wanted to have many different skills in trades
Prior to NPower, I was a full-time student-athlete. I have
like welding and plumbing, but I was also interested
many interests, such as real estate and music production.
in technology. When I was first introduced to NPower
But these careers are more commission based and I
through my mom, who graduated from the NPower
wanted to do something I was interested in and also
program, I realized I wanted to learn even more about
receive a salary, so I decided that I wanted to get into
technology to build off the little knowledge I already
tech. I found out about NPower through my mentor. He
had. NPower has been a place where I can come to learn
has advised many others on this program, so it was easy
more about the tech world, and what stood out the most
for me to trust that this would be beneficial. I hope to use
to me were all the projects we were able to do such as
my time at NPower to jumpstart and push me in my future
learning how to use different programs like Linux. Through
tech career in cybersecurity.
Modesto, CA
Professional Development, I benefitted by learning how to prepare for future interviews and different ways that I can approach and respond to them. After NPower, I hope to build a future for myself where I can have a sense of worklife balance so that I can spend time with my family.
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Richmond, CA
John Mason Clovis, CA
Frederick Miller US Army San Jose, CA
I was introduced to technology at a very young age. Growing up, I always wanted to be a game designer. I
Before NPower, I dreamt of becoming an architect, a
didn’t know everything involved with that, but I just knew
professional basketball player, and a music artist. My
I wanted to make games. As I got older, I felt lost in how
aspirations revolved around entrepreneurship in the music
to reach that goal, and while trying to find my way I was
and tech industries. Relocating to Silicon Valley ignited
told about NPower. I wasn’t exactly sure how big of an
my interest in tech, propelling me into this new journey.
opportunity joining NPower was until the first day of
I chose this program to break into the tech world, and I
orientation. NPower helped me to learn more about topics
especially appreciated its support for Veterans and young
I thought I fully knew already.
adults. NPower means the world to me as it equipped
One of the most beneficial aspects of NPower is the weekly professional development class. Many guest speakers from NPower partners came in and gave invaluable advice that helped me realize how easily vastly
me with the skills essential for my tech career. Engaging in online quizzes and lectures made learning a joy, and professional development and mentorship introduced me to tech, banking, and real estate experts.
different experiences are connected. My new goal is to
Looking ahead, I envision a career as a Cloud Specialist or
use the skills I’ve gained to find a career in the Game
Cybersecurity expert. NPower has empowered me from
Industry, starting with an entry-level Quality Assurance
an aspiring architect and athlete to a tech enthusiast.
role and leading into a Game Developer role in the future.
This program has provided me with valuable skills and a supportive community that has propelled me toward my dream tech career.
25
GRADUATE BIOS
Miguel Morales, 24 San Mateo, CA
Paul Mushell, 26 San Jose, CA
Before NPower I was working in a security job. I had
Before NPower, I was a minimum-wage retail worker who
plans to go back to school to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
worked with customers and maintained store orders.
Financially, however, I was unprepared. While I was
What brought me to NPower was an ad at a job fair,
searching for a career change, I came across NPower. I
which piqued my interest. As such, I decided to look into
was interested in this opportunity because I saw the doors
their services. My time at NPower gave me the tools
it opens for people and saw them come out as a better
and connections I needed for this trade, and because
version of themselves. As I graduate from my NPower
of their vast network, I was able to get a job easily.
experience, I’m looking forward to seeing what the future
After graduation, I plan further to refine my skills and
holds for my career in tech.
knowledge in this field to hopefully elevate myself when being considered for employment.
california
Miguel Ortiz Jr, 24 San Jose, CA
Before NPower, I was struggling to decide the next step
Dakota Pantaleon US Air Force Reserves Vista, CA
towards which career path I wanted to take. I have always
When I was younger, I wanted to be a firefighter, and that
been interested in tech and have realized that most jobs
is still a dream of mine because I always wanted to help
require or are going to require tech in the future. During
people. My aspirations were to also be in the military,
a road trip, a friend of mine recommended NPower since
which I fulfilled this past year, and travel the world, meet
he knew my background in tech. In the past, I wanted to
new people, and learn new things. What led me to a path
become a software engineer, but I decided to pursue a
in tech was a desire to learn a new skill and to have a
different career path instead of becoming a Sociologist.
backup career. I chose NPower because I learned about
But after hearing about NPower, I decided to try it out,
it through my friend, who had taken a course to get his
and I loved it. It expanded my skill set and knowledge
A+ Certification. NPower has been a great experience to
within tech. NPower has been an amazing experience, and
go through. My favorite moment was during professional
the staff have been really supportive. I have accomplished
development, getting to learn and ask questions about
many new things and learned so much as well. I know that
resumes in a one-on-one setting with guests. This was
with NPower, I will find a job or internship that will expand
beneficial for me so I could use it for my LinkedIn profile.
my experience and lead me to a successful career path.
In the future, after NPower, I see myself in a tech job and
Thank you, NPower, and all my colleagues who joined me
later working in the cybersecurity field.
in this program.
27
GRADUATE BIOS
Diego Pantaleon, 20 Vista, CA
Growing up, I wanted to be a lot of things, and it was
Dat Phan
US Army San Jose, CA
constantly changing. As a child, I wanted to work in
My name is Dat Phan, and I am an Army Veteran. Before
the military and then as a police officer. When I was in
NPower, I was a student at SJCC College and worked as
college, I switched my major from business administration
an EMD Chemical Technician. I had limited knowledge
to kinesiology. Shortly afterward, I withdrew from college.
of software, IT, and technology, but thanks to NPower,
I found myself working minimum jobs for the time being
I have equipped myself with a wide range of skills and
to make ends meet and take some time to think about
certifications. During my time at NPower, I obtained my
what I wanted to do.
Google IT, ITF+, and A+ certifications, which have allowed
Prior to NPower, I found myself interested in cybersecurity but realized I needed to learn ITF+ to understand cybersecurity further. I found out about NPower from my older brother, who also went through the program.
me to advance in my tech career and opened up new opportunities. The mentorship and guidance I received from individuals like Deshon Smith, Shaun, Audric, Sarah, and Melissa Zamora were invaluable to my growth.
Overall, I wanted to improve my financial situation and
Now that I’ve graduated, I’m excited to utilize my new
further my career. As I reflect on my time at NPower, I
skills and find employment as an IT specialist. I plan
learned that NPower educates and prepares its students
to leverage my apprenticeship to secure a meaningful
for their professional IT careers. My favorite moment
position in the industry. Additionally, I am considering
in NPower was when we had to roleplay as Helpdesk
signing up for advanced NPower classes for continued
Technicians and solve client issues. I have benefited a lot
education to enhance my expertise further. NPower
through this program with my resume building and the
has truly made a significant impact on my tech career,
knowledge I’ve gained about technology. After NPower, I
transforming me from someone with limited knowledge to
hope to kickstart my career in IT and return to NPower’s
a skilled professional. I am grateful for the opportunities
cybersecurity program.
and support provided by NPower, and I am eager to embark on this new chapter in my professional journey.
california
Chanae Pickett US Air Force San Ramon, CA
Devon Pina, 18 Sunnyvale, CA
Before NPower, I was not that aware of what IT entails.
In my 15-year professional journey, I have held
However, I worked with my dad on cars, and he inspired
progressive leadership roles both in the USAF and the
me to want to learn tech. Further, I also knew my interest
Event Industry. My desire to learn led me to NPower’s IT
in tech strengthened when my school started to have
Fundamentals class. My ambition is to be an impactful
intro tech classes. During my NPower training, the favorite
force within tech teams, equipped with a solid foundation
thing I learned was five-layer networks because it taught
of technology. I strive to make a difference in the tech
me the important layers like the physical, data Link layer,
landscape and improve people’s lives with my unique
network layer, transport layer, and application layer. The
approach to the agile world. I have been inspired with a
physical layer is important because it transports data
new sense of purpose and forged partnerships to propel
using mechanical or electrical interfaces. The data link
my career through the NPower program. I believe this
encapsulates the source and destination. The network
is one of the most impactful decisions I’ve made since
breaks up segments into network packages and puts them
choosing to serve my country.
back together on the other end transferring accepted data from the session layer. I appreciated how the Professional Development team helped me form better sentences and speak more professionally. Overall, I think tech can help people who come from underserved communities by providing solutions to problems that we may not have figured out yet.
29
GRADUATE BIOS
Shan Rafique, 25 Lodi, CA
Enrique Ramirez, 19 Stockton, CA
Before joining NPower, I was a recent college graduate
Prior to NPower, I had just quit my job because it wasn’t
actively seeking a full-time position. I have learned some
working out for me, so I started to look for something
valuable lessons through a lot of self-reflection. I find it
better. I was then introduced to NPower by a family
easy to be lenient with others. However, I tend to be more
Member. I looked into it and saw it involved technology,
critical of myself. I believe this self-awareness is a positive
and I just had to check it out. I’ve always loved
trait. My interest in tech began while overhearing a friend
technology, and it was a dream for me to be able to have
discussing their plans to pursue a computer science
a job in the tech industry. I am thankful for my time in
degree. This conversation sparked my curiosity, leading
the NPower program and excited to see where my tech
me to major in computer science.
journey leads me.
During my NPower training, I loved the concept of networking because it involves the intricate web of interconnected devices and systems that facilitate the flow of data. I was particularly drawn to understanding the protocols, standards, and security measures that govern this flow; it’s like learning the language machines use to communicate. In Professional Development, what I appreciated the most was the continuous improvement of our resumes. I believe that technology can significantly benefit individuals from underserved communities, bridging the gap and empowering them to overcome the challenges they face. I know there is still a lot of work that needs to be done, but I am committed to striving to make a positive impact on the world through technology.
california
Mario Ramirez, 19
Sahai Redleaf
Before Npower, I was working at a full-time job, planning
Before embarking on my NPower journey, I leveraged my
on going back to college. While going to school, I realized
BA degree in business management, where I honed my
I wanted to learn tech skills. During my NPower training,
skills, acquired new knowledge of software and devices,
the favorite thing I learned was the security measures
and developed a keen interest in the realm of Information
we need and should have. There are many people using
Technology (IT). IT represented a dynamic and evolving
phishing emails, false networks, and dumpster diving to
sector within the business that captivated my attention.
find private information. I learned the value of strong
However, I recognized the need to expand my skill set to
passwords. I mostly enjoyed the resume workshop in
make a meaningful entry into the field. This realization led
professional development. I really liked the template they
me to explore work opportunities that would enrich my
gave out to improve my resume. I was not that fond of
knowledge in IT. My quest brought me to the doorstep of
my resume before taking the training, but now I have a
NPower.
San Jose, CA
resume that I am proud of. I think Tech can help people from underserved communities by giving them more opportunities to learn online and communicate with others. I see myself working at my current job learning new skills and gaining new certifications that will help me in the future. I see myself working at a tech company and going back to college.
Oakland, CA
NPower not only provided me with the technical skills and knowledge I was seeking but also the support and guidance needed to transition into the IT industry effectively. The program has empowered me to embark on an exciting journey into the world of technology, where I’m now equipped to make a meaningful impact. I will graduate with 6 certificates to properly start my career path in cybersecurity. As I continue to grow and thrive in tech, I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity NPower has provided me. I’m enthusiastic about contributing to the ever-evolving world of IT and leveraging my newfound skills to drive innovation and change.
31
GRADUATE BIOS
David Rodriguez Grajeda, 22
Henry Rojas, 23
San Jose, CA
San Jose, CA
Prior to Npower, I was a recent graduate of the Year Up
Before NPower, I was Studying for my certificates in
program and working as a Customer Experience Manager
AutoCAD at Evergreen Valley College. What brought me
at Michaels. Customer service allowed me to find the
to NPower was a job application on Indeed. I was looking
beauty in helping others, and I wanted to find out how
to expand and grow my skills to be a viable asset to
to help others with technology. I did not really have
any team or company and thought NPower could help.
much knowledge of where to begin a career in IT. I was
I applied using my resume and references, and I was
introduced to NPower by a Year Up alumni. I decided
accepted into the program. As I worked on completing
to give NPower a shot because I am really motivated to
certifications through Tech Fundamentals, the education
work as an IT support specialist. NPower is giving me the
NPower provided helped me decide that cybersecurity
opportunity to enter the IT field with certifications that
was the right path for me, so I’ve now submitted my
would allow us to get entry-level jobs, and now that I’m
application to NPower’s Cybersecurity program for Spring
graduating, I am excited to see what my future has in
2024. I am thankful for everything NPower has helped me
store for me.
achieve, and I look forward to what the future holds for me.
california
Ronald Scott US Navy San Diego, CA
Anthony Tagata US Marine Corps Sacramento, CA
I have always had a tremendous passion for tech. At
Before NPower, my professional journey took me through
just eight years old, I read a textbook on HTML coding
various roles in the transportation industry. However, what
from cover to cover and built my first website. From
ultimately led me to NPower was its’ perfect blend of
middle school to college, I’ve always chosen Computer
affordability and convenience. I had been presented with
Science and Technology as my major. I’ve been fortunate
an opportunity through Skillbridge in the past, but barriers
enough to work for companies like Apple as a Mac Expert
had prevented me from seizing it. This opportunity felt like
providing helpdesk support to customers. I also worked
a second chance to get into the IT field. My experience
as part of the Innovations Team at The Home Depot
with NPower has been truly transformative. The program
Headquarters in Atlanta, GA, working directly with senior
has not only equipped me with the necessary skills but
staff and the CEO. With the certifications that I obtain
has also boosted my self-confidence by providing me
through NPower, I’ll be able to take the next steps on my
with the knowledge and tools to make a successful career
journey into the world of tech.
transition. As I look ahead, I am excited about venturing into the IT industry, a field I’ve been passionate about. The skills I have acquired through NPower will undoubtedly be invaluable on this new journey. Additionally, I am thrilled to be part of NPower’s mentorship program, as it will provide me with the guidance and support I need to navigate this exciting transition. I’m grateful for the opportunities that NPower has presented and the doors it’s opening for me in the IT world. This new path feels like a natural fit, and I cannot wait to see where it takes me.
33
GRADUATE BIOS
Germeni Thomas, 26 Oakland, CA
Nathan Touch, 22 Oakland, CA
Before NPower, I was a Security Guard working in Oakland,
Before starting with NPower, I didn’t really have any
California. I learned that being a security guard was okay;
career interests for the future. College was something
although it was laid back, it was not fulfilling enough for
that was very hard for me, and I couldn’t do that due to
me. I had just been explaining to my family that I wanted
both financial and academic struggles. I had some basic
to get into technology and further my education when
knowledge of the tech world and wanted to improve
I came across the NPower program. Although my first
that. A friend of mine was involved in a volunteering
greatest accomplishment is completing my GED despite
program who knew about NPower, so my friend told me
the struggles I faced with high school being too slow
about it and asked if I would like to try this out. I am glad
for me, my second greatest accomplishment is being
I accepted NPower’s offer of admission, and I’ve worked
accepted into NPower’s computer technology certificate
hard to improve myself and my knowledge. I’ve gained
program. I was desperate for a challenge, and this training
new skills with NPower, and I hope to be able to start a
program has provided me with just that. My favorite area
successful career with my new knowledge and skills.
of study in this program was binary code because I find the process of converting numbers or words into binary to be very therapeutic. The professional development curriculum provided me with a chance for professional growth and advancement in my chosen career. I’m glad I received the opportunity to attend NPower, and I hope to use the skills I’ve gained to further my education in mobile app technology, and eventually create mobile app games and own a small IT customer service company.
california
Devinci Tran, 19 San Jose, CA
Quang Tran, 20 San Jose, CA
Prior to NPower, I was just a high school graduate student
Prior to starting the NPower program, I always had an
who was working multiple jobs while trying to balance
interest in technology or electronics. Whether it was
school. Realizing that bouncing around minimum-wage
about electronics, coding, or something as simple as
paying jobs wasn’t a good idea, I knew I’d have to learn a
taking things apart to put them back together again, I was
skill to improve my financial situation. At my newest job, I
intrigued. The only problem was that I did not know where
worked with an internship recruiter there who helped me
to begin. My friend introduced me to NPower, and the
find IT/computer internships, one of which was NPower.
program laid out a path that I could follow to strengthen
Now that I’m graduating from the program, I’m proud of
my professional, technical, and career-building skills.
myself for trying something new for the first time and
NPower allowed me to experience the many challenges of
really applying myself to gaining new knowledge while
working in the tech industry while also giving me the tools
meeting so many new peers. I can’t believe I’ve made
I needed to thrive. Through what I learned, I recognized
it this far, and it feels so rewarding having believed in
the importance of preparation, personification, spirit, and
myself, maintaining that if I keep putting in effort and
teamwork. I would like to thank NPower for giving me this
asking for help, I can accomplish anything. With all the
huge opportunity as well as helping me build pillars to
professionalism and determination I’ve learned throughout
support my future endeavors, and I look forward to seeing
my journey in this program, I’m now very confident in my
how much I can grow and how far I can potentially reach
future goals and my ability to enter an IT role successfully.
with their constant support.
35
GRADUATE BIOS
Teresita Vargas, 21 Alameda, CA
Maria Vega, 22 San Mateo, CA
Before I found NPower’s Tech Fundamentals program,
Before NPower I attended San Francisco State University
I had recently completed a bachelor’s degree in
pursuing my bachelor’s in mechanical engineering. I had
international relations from the University of California,
worked in the past as an Associate Banker and gained
Davis. I had prior experience as a Barista and a Student
administrative experience in other roles, but I was
Leader of a COVID Testing site on UC Davis’s campus,
excited to explore what the tech industry had to offer
but I was excited to explore ways I could take advantage
me. Unfortunately, due to COVID and unforeseen family
of a career in the tech industry through NPower’s Tech
events, I had to figure out a way to financially take care
Fundamentals Program. NPower has helped me become
of myself while also focusing on school. Due to the Bay
confident working with computers and helped me develop
Area’s high cost of living, I had to take a break from school
an interest in eventually becoming an IT Project Manager.
but luckily found NPower’s Tech Fundamentals program
Our instructors have inspired me to pass my CompTIA ITF+
and was excited at the possibility of the free training
certification, and I am on track to completing my Google
and experience it provides. NPower has helped me study
IT Support Certification as well. I am looking forward to
to for both my Google IT Support and CompTIA IT+
what comes next in my career!
certifications, and I am excited to help encourage more Hispanic Women into the Tech industry!
california
Gino Vega, 24
Rancho Cordova, CA Prior to NPower, I managed a martial arts gym alongside
John Williams US Airforce Sacramento, CA
my father, but I always had an interest in tech. My
Before NPower, I had been gathering the resources
Father served in the Coast Guard, so I was exposed to
to restart my business after closing it when the
many diverse cultures, sparking my love for martial arts.
pandemic broke loose. I worked at Work for Warriors,
Unfortunately, the pandemic caused us to have to close
an organization designed to assist Veterans with
our gym but it gave me the opportunity to pursue my
reestablishing themselves in the job market when I was
interest in Tech. I am currently studying for my ITF+
asked if I’d like to participate in NPower’s IT Fundamentals
certification and look forward to exploring my interest
course. I have been both joyful and surprised to learn
in coding and learning more about the tech industry
many new things in the forever-changing field of
through NPower’s Tech Fundamentals program and other
Information Technology. The studies were quite interesting
advanced classes. I’m excited to merge my adaptability
and became more than just a refresher course. Having
with new challenges!
participated in previous courses through other schools, I found the staff accepting of my background and evolved in their thinking towards other trainees. This allowed more of their energy to be given to new learners and gave me a chance to help others. This was very unusual from my previous experiences. Being an encouragement to the instructors and trainees became my theme as we progressed. This experience won’t be forgotten; it will be the undercurrent of growth and enjoyment that helps me serve others in my career path. This program has been a journey in professional hope, attainment of dreams, and a pleasure to experience in a profound way.
37
GRADUATE BIOS
Derek Wong
US Navy Reserve San Leandro, CA
Shing Yee Wong
US Navy Reserve Spouse San Leandro, CA
Before NPower I worked in the Architectural, Engineering,
Before NPower, I was a Program Manager at Google. I
and Construction sector for 20 years. If there were a
decided I wanted to learn tech when I knew I wanted to be
takeaway from my current Navy Reserve service, it
a technical Program Manager. During my NPower training,
would be serving the greater cause for our country to
my favorite thing to learn was technical knowledge. For
defend freedom and democracy nationally and around
instance, I know how to put together a desktop from
the world. My favorite thing about my NPower training
scratch, something I use every day, but I never know
was reliving the memories of learning about computer
how they were made. I enjoy the mentorship program
hardware and software from my father. These childhood
offered by Professional Development a lot. I believe it will
memories were refreshing and gave me a chance to learn
be a friendship for life. In the future, I want to be able to
new things. Through Professional Development, it was
share my technical knowledge with others and help them
most interesting to see how firms like Bank of America
achieve their goals. In a year, I can see myself continuing
and Lockheed Martin integrate cybersecurity and IT
to study technical skills such as programming languages.
professionals into their work, making NPower a fool-
In 3 years, time, I want to learn a technical role and be a
proof and a can’t-fail program. Tech in general, such as
mentor to others.
Apple Watch, Python programming language, or AI for that matter, is only going to enhance our human senses and awareness in the world and beyond. I see myself working in an industry that utilizes a combination of IT, cybersecurity, and software programming to leverage advancement in research and technology. I would like to be spearheading this effort and be a significant contributor to this endeavor, all while mentoring the next generation to do the same and more.
california
Chris Wood
Katherine Cole
Katherine Wong
Rick Martinez
39
CONGRATULATIONS
california
FALL 2023 Tech Fundamentals Carlos Aleman
Landen Manuel
Geoffrey Ashton
Henry Martinez
Charles Bain
John Mason
Ellison Bernabe
Frederick Miller
Stephen Brown
Miguel Morales
Arabella Grace Casiano
Paul Mushell
Salvador Castaneda
Miguel Ortiz Jr
Kristian Casupanan
Diego Pantaleon
Leon Chung
Dakota Pantaleon
Katherine Cole
Dat Phan
Alissa Cuason
Chanae Pickett
Ramon Dixon
Devon Pina
Morde Ehrenfeld
Shan Rafique
Kaitlyn Gardner
Mario Ramirez
Thomas Groff
Enrique Ramirez
Javier Guerra
Sahai Redleaf
Brian Gutierrez
David Rodriguez Grajeda
John Hancock Jr
Henry Rojas
Nouha Hassani
Ronald Scott
Rudy Hernandez
Anthony Tagata
Jian Herrera
Germeni Thomas
Heather Hillmer
Nathan Touch
Guangfeng Jin
Devinci Tran
Raees Khan
Quang Tran
Hayal Kollech
Teresita Vargas
Johnathan Langston
Maria Vega
Orion Laverine
Gino Vega
Sung Min Lee
John Williams
Evelyn Lopez
Derek Wong
Erika Lopez-Vasquez
Katherine Wong
Zackery Lozano
Chris Wood 41
80%
> Of students who enroll graduate > Of alumni get jobs or continue their education (Based on NPower’s national data)
LAUNCHING TECH CAREERS.
TRANSFORMING LIVES NPower’s model is a solution to building a diverse tech pipeline. Our graduates launch tech
jobs with an average starting salary of $41,000–$60,000 and are positioned to advance their career path, enabling them to earn more than their peers in lower-wage jobs. Higher earning potential is the key to breaking generational cycles of poverty, positioning our students and their families to achieve long-term economic success.
california
We are the
FUTURE OF WORK Through partner and tech industry collaboration, our free training model is a workforce development solution for the future. In today’s economy, over 50% of all jobs require some degree of technology and digital skills. We prepare untapped, diverse talent to fill the number of technology-oriented jobs that will increase in the U.S. to 13 million by 2025, according to a recent Microsoft Data Science report that estimates that digital job capacity. Our graduates of over 8,000 veterans and young adults are hired at over 3,000 companies and nonprofits as interns and full-time employees. NPower is on a mission to create pathways to economic prosperity by launching digital careers for young adults and military veterans from underserved communities. Part of this goal is supported by our Command Shift Coalition, a national consortium of women and allies that advocate for strategies that invest in and inspire the advancement of young women of color in tech careers and aims to increase the representation of women of color in tech from 5% to 10% over the next 10 years. This coalition was sparked by ‘40 by 22’, a NPower initiative to help young women of color access the skills needed to launch careers in the tech industry in partnership with Citi Foundation’s Pathways to Progress initiative.
43
THANK YOU
to our employment and community partners, sponsors, funders, volunteers EMPLOYER PARTNERS Accenture Astreya Deloitte Insight Global Murphy McKay Opportunities@Work Western Governors University Actalent Amotions Grameen America Guardian Work for Warriors Wells Fargo Mindsource YUPRO Ernst & Young FUNDERS Citigroup Technology Inc. Mike Elmore The Dauber Foundation United States Department of Homeland Security Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program Workday Foundation Comcast Gilead Sciences, Inc. BMO Financial Group Splunk Inc. Lena Kaufman
california
Nutanix Inc National Basketball Association MetLife Bank of America Dropbox Inc. The Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, Inc. Michael Doumani Benevity Fund Comerica Dallas College Nutanix May & Stanley Smith Charitable Trust US Bank Kapor Center Sharks Foundation Wells Fargo Bank Pacific Credit Union VOLUNTEERS Kathleen Kuchac Christina DeHaven Shelly Smith Thamara Jean-Louis Marc Edmundson Agha Haider David Alex Alesha Petrov Angie Pracchia Heidi Gearhart Serette King James Mullins Christopher Van Vleet
Andrea Ocampo Liza Dass George Esquivel Irina Stipek Patrick Williams Jennifer Davis Sean Byrne Curtis Jones Erica Lembo Brent Moore Michael DiPaolo Muniba Quddus Michael Diaz Scott Regdos Jenn Taylor Ian Patrick Philip Hayes Merdad Parsey Duy Pham Dana Angelo Shane Hare Agha Haider Frances McLean Alesha Petrov Darren Change Caroline Jones Naomi Bautista Jennifer Davis Ida Peric Caroline Smithwick John Skae Scott Regdos Michael Knievel Francisco Cabas John Peace
Chris Webber Dwight Lovelace Scott Zedrick Alexander Joyeux Mehernosh Amroli Jynelle Cedro Pamela Gorgei Anabel Santamaria Monalisa Banerjee Sudalaimani Senthilsamy Divya Yamavarapu Ritika Gupto Yvonne HSU Simranjit Rekhi Jalecia Kofi Sharan Chakravarthy Jennifer De Oca Montes Cheryl James Sonika Laungani Nancy Lou Joshua Citajaya Robert Diaz Jeevan Sunny Max Brown Imani Crosby Ryan Zervakos Chen Bendrick Reagan M Phung Tuanni Vasconcelos Sarayana Balakrishman Sukirt Tripathi Ashish And Himanvi Panidepu
NATIONAL PATHWAY BUILDERS Pathway Builders are individual donors invested in the future of our country and changing lives for military veterans and young adults from underserved communities. To learn more about Pathway Builders or to join this group of changemakers, please visit npower.org/support or email hello@npower.org.
AMBASSADOR Ronald Gula Thomas Kurian Peter Trizzino
CHAMPION
Christiane Costello Paul Daugherty Dean Del Vecchio Michael Doumani Matt Horner Jennifer Kleinert Brian McCarthy Steve Murphy Mark Patterson Chris Perry David Reilly Ron Robbins
PARTNER
Craig Cuffie Guillermo Diaz Jr. Gail Fierstein Shane Fitzsimons Tony Kerrison Debra King Rick Scurfield Josh Sutton Cliff Thomas Sangy Vatsa Perry Wright Lori Zugelder
SUPPORTER
Katherine Avery Nic & Sasha Barnes Robert Benoit Stefanie Boles Marletta Boyd II Marletta Boyd Sr. David Boyle Michael Bridges Dale Brooks Kristie Carney Gerald Charles Jr. Benjamin Cole Hannah Craven Richard Dames Quincy Davis Carl De Groote Groote Richard DePalma Mike Elmore Amy Gnagy Demetrius Goodwin Michael Gregoire Mark Heil Rhonda Henley Matt Holton Cindy Hoots Hubbard Family Charitable Foudnation Olivia Jackson Brooke Jaffe Timothy Lyons George Maddaloni Fernando Matzkin Viola Maxwell-Thompson Richard Mclaughlin Peter McNamara
David Miller Robert Millstone Brian Mize Kevin & Melissa Modica Brian Mooney Tristan Morel L’Horset David Niles Rodrick O’Connor Jonathan Orr Frank Pedersen Shane Pfannes Stephen Poeppe Greg Raimann Jose Reyes John Rosato Jessica Roy Michael Rupinski Diane Schwartz William Shea Dwight Shepherd Randy Siedl James Smith David Sullivan Nicole Tate Coriel Taylor Zachary Vendeiro Harish Venkitaramanan Scott Wilton Judy Winter-Giella
FRIEND
Einat Burshtine Damon Downing Benjamin Hyman Tanya Loh Susanne Tedrick
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california
NATIONAL NPOWER SUPPORTERS Underwriters $750K+
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NATIONAL NPOWER SUPPORTERS Sponsors $250K-$749K
california
NATIONAL NPOWER SUPPORTERS Partners $100K-$249K The Abell Foundation
General Motors
Mass Mutual
SHI International Corp.
The Ainslie Foundation
Globant
Ascension
The Hearst Foundations
Missouri Department of Economic Development
Standard & Poor’s Corporation
Atlas Data Systems
Hewlett Packard Company
NetApp
State of Maryland
Bloomberg LLP
Hitachi
Boeing
Infinidat
New Jersey Department of Labor
St. Louis Regional Business Council
Capital One Financial Corp.
Ira W. De Camp Foundation
New York City
Tata Consultancy Services
The New York Community Trust
Texas Mutual Insurance Company
Oracle
Texas Workforce Commission
Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation Check Point Software Technologies, LTD The Beth & Ravenel Curry Foundation Ernst & Young Fiserv Inc. Fortinet, Inc.
John & Marcia Goldman Foundation Kaiser Permanente
Palo Alto Networks Patrick J McGovern Foundation
Twilio
L’Oreal Groupe
Rainwater Charitable Foundation
Wipro Technologies
Light a Single Candle Foundation
The San Jose Sharks Foundation
Kapor Center KPMG U.S. Foundation, Inc.
Verizon Foundation Workday Foundation Zendesk
Supporters $50K-$99K The Achelis & Bodman Foundation
Communities Foundation of Texas
Amazon
Community Foundation of Southeast Michigan
Andreessen Horowitz Cultural Leadership Fund
Consumers Energy
Koret Foundation
The Saigh Foundation
Maryland - AIF
S&P Global Inc.
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development
Salesforce.com Foundation
SS&C Technologies, Inc.
Society for Information Management
Arista Networks, Inc.
Corteva
Armis Inc.
Data Dynamics, Inc.
Maryland Department of Labor
Auth0 Inc.
Elasticsearch
Mastercard
BAE Systems
Emerson
Merck & Co., Inc
Texas Workforce Commission
Benevity Fund
OKTA, Inc.
Broadcom Inc.
Flextronics International USA, Inc.
United Way of Southeastern Michigan
The Centene Charitable Foundation
Henry & Ruth Blaustein Rosenberg Foundation
City of Dayton
IBM
Cohesity
ING Financial Markets LLC
The Rockefeller Foundation
Comerica
Intel Corporation
Rubrik
OneTen The William R. Orthwein, Jr. Foundation, Inc.
State of New Jersey - PACE
United Way of Tarrant County VMware inc. Wells Fargo Bank Wilson Sheehan Foundation
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NATIONAL NPOWER SUPPORTERS Friends $25K-$49K The Addy Foundation
BravoTECH
Hudson’s Bay Company
Service Now
ADP Foundation Inc.
Bright Funds
Humble Bumble
State Street
Adobe Systems Inc
Clayco
JobsFirstNYC
Ally Financial
Con Edison
The Kimball Foundation
Super Micro Computer, Inc.
The Altum Fund
The Dauber Foundation
Mainline RTP
American Direct Marketing
Dugas Family Foundation Inc
Mercy Caritas
Appian Corporation
F5, Inc.
Appteon
FIS Global
Baltimore Gas and Electric Company
GalaxE Solutions, Inc.
Nourishing – A Schnucks Foundation
Gateway to Innovation
Baltimore Nonprofit Relief Fund
NPower Canada
Gilead Sciences, Inc.
Nutanix Inc
HCL Technologies
Own Company
The Graham and Carolyn Holloway Family Foundation
The Pott Foundation
Baltimore Women’s Giving Circle Beyond Identity
california
NetApp Inc. New York City Council
Royal Bank of Canada
UKG Inc. Under Armour
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