NPower New Jersey Tech Fundamentals Spring 2018 by NPower

GRADUATION CEREMONY

MONDAY, JUNE 25, 2018 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

new jersey

JP MORGAN CHASE & COMPANY 575 WASHINGTON BLVD JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310

# N P OW E R G R AD S

FOLLOW TONIGHTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EVENT @NPOWERORG AND POST YOUR OWN # N P OW E R G R AD S | # N P OW E R N E W J E R S E Y

TECH FUNDAMENTALS CLASS 5

GRADUATION PROGRAM WELCOME Courtey Bryan, Executive Director, Head of East Region, Global Philanthropy, JPMorgan Chase Bea Tassot, New Jersey Executive Director, National Liaison for Military Strategy and Programs, NPower

ALUMNI SPEAKER Nigel Golding NPower New Jersey, Tech Fundamentals Class 4 Field Service Engineer, RWJ Barnabas Health

CLASS SPEAKERS Mailien Nguyen NPower New Jersey | Young Adult, Tech Fundamentals Class 5 Richard Peterson NPower New Jersey | Veteran, Tech Fundamentals Class 5

CLASS HONORS Michael Rasmussen, Program Director, NPower AWARDS JPMORGAN CHASE LEADERSHIP AWARD Ambrose Nardulli, Chief Technology Officer, Application Infrastructure & Operations for Commercial Banking, JPMorgan Chase & Co

NPOWER “GRIT” AWARD Nicollette Vaillant, Social Support Manager, NPower NPOWER CORE VALUES AWARD Steven Ramos, Career Placement Manager, NPower

COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER Ambrose Nardulli, Chief Technology Officer, Application Infrastructure & Operations for Commercial Banking, JPMorgan Chase & Co

PROGRAM COMPLETION CERTIFICATE CEREMONY Haniyyah Glenn, Recruitment & Admissions Manager, NPower Kendall Givens, Internship Placement Manager, NPower CLOSING REMARKS Bea Tassot RECEPTION

COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER AMBROSE NARDULLI

Chief Technology Officer, Application Infrastructure & Operations for Commercial Banking, JPMorgan Chase & Co

Ambrose Nardulli is the CTO for the Application Infrastructure & Operations team for Commercial Banking at JPMorgan Chase & Co. He began his financial services career as a programmer and has held various technology roles over his 25 years in the industry, including director of technology Infrastructure & trading floor operations for Washington Mutual Capital Markets; head of enterprise email and collaborative products for Chase Manhattan Bank; and application development director for Chase Consumer Lending. In his current role, Ambrose leads teams focused on end-toend management of production business environments— including engineering, application support, and site modernization—to enhance the technology experience for over 9,500 Commercial Banking employees.

new jersey

Ambrose serves as both the Jersey City Technology Hub lead, and the Jersey City Access Ability executive sponsor. Within these dual roles, he leads a site that embodies over 5,800 technology professionals. Through Ambrose’s energetic and contagious enthusiasm, he promotes innovation and a culture of engagement and inclusion within the campus that reaches into the Jersey City community by driving an integrated strategy with our local schools. Ambrose strongly believes that strength that comes from diversity and encourages bringing one’s total self to work. His leadership espouses a learning culture that encourages a mindset of creativity and skillset modernization along with a strong mobility program that is balanced with recruiting external expertise. In his spare time, Ambrose enjoys being with his family, cycling, and connecting with nature. Ambrose resides in New Jersey with his wife and two children. He holds a BA in information systems from Pace University and an executive MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

ALUMNI SPEAKER NIGEL GOLDING

NPower New Jersey Tech Fundamentals Class 4 Field Service Engineer, RWJ Barnabas Health

Nigel Golding is a graduate of Class 4. He earned a bachelor of arts degree in criminal justice from Rutgers University in May 2016. Through NPower, Nigel obtained his CompTIA A+ certification and interned for the City of Newark where he was responsible for providing help desk support to over 2,000 Newark users, managing database organization, inventory, backup of the city’s data, and assisting with the Periscope Data Project utilizing SQL. Upon completing his internship, Nigel worked as an information tech support consultant for the United States Golf Association and obtained his CCENT certification. In March 2018, Nigel accepted a full-time position at RWJ Barnabas Health as a field service engineer. In his current role, he monitors, troubleshoots, and repairs computer hardware, software, mobile devices, telecom, and networking problems. Additionally, he trains staff and customers on various technology topics, including hardware configurations, processes, and applications. In the future, Nigel plans to pursue the CySA+, Linux+, CEH and AWS Certified Solutions Architect certifications.

“We must always remember to continuously work on

ourselves and put our best foot forward in any endeavor we partake so success chases us. Doors to new opportunities will always open when you’re working on yourself. NPower was one of those opportunities for me. As someone trying to break into a tech career with a non-IT degree, I can tell you first-hand how difficult it was. I knew where I wanted to be but I had no idea of how to get there. I am grateful to have had this chapter in my life because NPower cleared the path for me and aligned me with my career goals today.”

# N P OW E R G R AD S

YOUNG ADULT

CLASS SPEAKER MAILIEN NGUYEN

NPower New Jersey Tech Fundamentals Class 5

“My journey to and through NPower has been exciting, fun, and challenging. This program has given me more than I could have asked for. Not only did the program give me the knowledge to step into the IT field, it also helped me with my communication skills and how to present myself to the world. Coming to NPower is one of the best decisions I’ve made because now I am certified in a field that I have a passion for and I have made solid connections with colleagues and the staff members of NPower.”

VETERAN

CLASS SPEAKER RICHARD PETERSON

NPower New Jersey Tech Fundamentals Class 5

“Before I was introduced to the NPower team in New Jersey, I had been unemployed for over ten months, had applied to over 80 jobs and had only been on three interviews. This outcome was despite having an MBA, over 20 years experience in my industry, several rewrites of my resume by professionals, and postings on several job boards. I then spoke with an alumnus of NPower who had reached out to my veterans’ representative at the unemployment office to help other veterans and heard about the exceptional team in New Jersey. I applied immediately and was accepted. Living on the edge as I was, I needed extra attention and the NPower team sprang into action with letters, practical assistance for everyday expenses, and also with a genuine heart to help. I give the glory to my Lord Jesus Christ for my success and cannot give enough thanks to an excellence-driven team at NPower New Jersey.”

new jersey

OUR STORY NPower is a national nonprofit that offers an alternative fast-track to tech careers for military veterans, military spouses and young adults from underserved communities in New York, Texas, California, Maryland, New Jersey and Missouri. Our six-month program fuels a diverse pipeline of digital professionals hired into entry-and mid-level jobs by Fortune 500 companies throughout the US. NPowerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s state-of-the-art curriculum equips students to meet marketplace demandâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; engaging businesses, volunteers and nonprofits in their long-term success. We invest in the growth of our alumni with continued professional development and credentialing.

new jersey

BOARD OF DIRECTORS David Reilly | Chair Chief Information Officer, Global Banking and Markets Bank of America

Mike Fey President and Chief Operating Officer Symantec

Matt Horner | Vice Chair Senior Vice President, Global Enterprise Sales World Wide Technology

Richard M. Greenbaum Managing Director, Global Head Technology Infrastructure Citi

Joshua S. Levine | Treasurer Managing Director Kita Capital Management Gail Fierstein | Secretary Senior Vice President Pearson Steven Ballantyne Chief of Staff PowerSchool Vittorio Cretella Former Chief Information Officer Mars Inc.

Michael P. Gregoire Chief Executive Officer CA Technologies Moira Kilcoyne Former Co-Head of Global Technology and Data Morgan Stanley Thomas Knowlton Partner TCC Group Stephen M. Murphy Senior Managing Director, Infrastructure Services Accenture

Ramana Murthy Magapu Vice President and Head of Banking and Financial Services, North America Tata Consultancy Services Frank Pedersen Chief Operating Officer Consumer Dynamics Christopher J. Perry President, Global Sales, Marketing and Solutions Broadridge Financial Solutions

Diane Schwarz Vice President and Chief Information Officer Textron Woody Sessoms Senior Vice President Global Enterprise and Enterprise Business Segment Cisco Systems Dwight D. Shepherd Rear Admiral (Retired) Senior Executive CSRA Defense Group

Karen Peterson Chief Executive Officer, EdLab Group National Girls Collaborative

Josh Sutton CEO Agorai

Dan Petrozzo Managing Director Double Partners, LLC

Bertina Ceccarelli Chief Executive Officer NPower

Larry Quinlan Global CIO Deloitte

NEW JERSEY

REGIONAL ADVISORY BOARD

Vivian Brady-Philips Executive Director Jersey City Housing Authority Jacquie Cleary CEO Atlas Master Gunnery Sergeant John Escalante NYC/NJ Representative Marine For Life

Nicole Flowers Senior Manager, Cloud Infrastructure Accenture Rik Jones Director, KTech, Technology Services Management KPMG Radhakrishnan Mahalingam Partner/Vice President, FSS Cloud Application Innovation Delivery Leader IBM Global Business Services, US

Chris Murphy Director Platform Services TD Ameritrade Ambrose Nardulli Chief Technology Officer, Application Infrastructure & Operations for Commercial Banking JPMorgan Chase & Company

John Sasso Associate Director, Service Delivery Team Lead Technology Experience Support EY Robin Wilkins CEO Boots Up

Joshua Richards Director, Identity and Access Management Pearson

STATISTICS

TECH FUNDAMENTALS CLASS 5

65% 74% 87%

GRADUATION RATE

A+ CERTIFICATION RATE

(testing still underway)

BLACK / HISPANIC / ASIAN

The NPower Tech Fundamentals program includes mobility technology learning modules courtesy of the Cisco Networking Academy. 9

INTERNSHIP City of Newark

OLUWATOSIN ADETUTU

Before NPower, I was a supervisor in Carbon Credit Network in 2014 where I wrote energy audits for homes and businesses and formed sustainable alternatives in renewable energy sources. I am an engineer and hold a master’s degree in aerospace dynamics from Cranfield University, UK and have worked in a diverse range of organizations including Coscharis Motors, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and Green Square NG. I moved to the US in 2017 and started a STEM tutorial for students preparing for SATs and GMAT. One of my students told me about the NPower program, and I became interested as I was thinking about beginning a career in IT at the time. NPower has proven to be just what I needed; it has provided me with the skills, practical experience and connections I needed to transition into a career in IT.

25, Newark

INTERNSHIP Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. JOB IN THE MILITARY Infantry Platoon Sergeant, Mental Health Specialist The most important thing the US Army taught me was not just how to be a proper leader but how to properly treat others and work together to accomplish our mission. I learned about NPower from Mr. Dunn at Fairleigh Dickinson University and quickly joined the program. I’ve always been keen on technology, and this was a perfect opportunity for me to transition into the civilian sector while still conducting my National Guard obligation. NPower taught me the fundamentals of IT and opened my eyes to the ever-growing threat of cybersecurity. I earned my CompTIA A+ certification, and my thirst for more knowledge is being met. Today, there is a new feeling of uncertainty. The threat is in, and I am preparing myself to be on the front lines and will be Security+ certified by mid-summer. I hope to be hired by a cutting-edge company to learn and grow with them as I did with the military. Once I earn enough experience, I also plan on applying to the Army National Guard’s Cyber Security Team.

new jersey

ALLAIN V. BATONG Palisades Park US Army, Army Reserves, and Army National Guard Currently Serving

INTERNSHIP Urban League of Hudson County Before entering NPower, I was working at a charter school as a campus aid. There are so many things I have learned at NPower. For example, if you want something, you have to give it your undivided attention to obtain it. I also learned to fail. Failing so much in such a short time was very humbling, but so frustrating! Seeing others grasp the material quicker than me was demoralizing but I stuck with it because giving up was something I never learned.

ANTWANE BOYCE 21, Newark

NPower is an excellent program with plenty of people more than willing to help. I plan to keep learning new things after NPower. One of my most significant plans is to figure out how to use technology to push the next revolution. I plan on learning how to incorporate tech into my life and expand on my certifications. I plan to keep chasing my dreams to be the change I want to see in the world; I will keep pushing my mind to new heights from new tech to my poetry. NPower was good to me, and I thank all of you for the opportunity.

INTERNSHIP Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. Before NPower, I lived in Indiana. For the longest time, I worked with steel and other factory-like labor. Growing up, I always figured myself to be a techie of sorts, so after deciding that the steel industry was not for me, I took the opportunity to move to New Jersey and take part in the NPower program. Having little IT knowledge, NPower helped me advance and solidify what I already knew. I’ve learned the ins and outs of computers, their hardware, and software as well as troubleshooting techniques. Overall, NPower has helped me reinforce the foundations that I laid over the years, and I feel much more empowered with the knowledge I now have, hoping to take it and not only excel in the field but also help others along the way as NPower has helped me.

DONALD DECKER

24, Newark

# N P OW E R G R AD S

INTERNSHIP MARS Global Services JOB IN THE MILITARY Aviation Supply

ERICK ESCALANTE PUMAGUALLE

I served in the US Marine Corps for eight years, completing duty as a sergeant. I worked in the Aviation Supply Element at the Marine Air Station. Before NPower, I worked at a group home when I realized that I needed to make a career change for my daughter and myself. I saw the NPower flyer in the county resource center, and the rest is history. NPower can take a student with no computer skills and transform them into a certified computer technician. NPower can do the impossible, and I am the proof. After NPower, I plan to work full-time and return to attend advanced classes.

Passaic, NJ US Marine Corps Served 8 Years

INTERNSHIP City of Jersey City Before I came to NPower, I focused on school as a computer science major, coding in my free time. My sister referred me to NPower where I learned networking skills as well as troubleshooting Windows and many other things. In the Tech Fundamentals program, I learned about networks and how to use them securely. After learning network troubleshooting, I am even more interested in IT. When I came to this course, I thought it would be easy to excel, but it was not. I learned that nothing is easy when it comes to getting a certification. After NPower, I would like to get more experience in the IT field because this field has become very interesting and relevant to me.

ANUP GHIMIRE 19, Jersey City

new jersey

INTERNSHIP Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.

BICHOY HANNA 23, Bayonne

IT has always been an exciting and satisfying field for me ever since I was young. I am a full-time student at NPower and NJIT. After graduating from NPower, I will have only one semester left to complete a IT bachelor’s degree. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do next, but because of NPower my interest in the field has increased, and my knowledge expanded. It was a very tough semester for me because I overloaded myself by being a full-time student in NJIT and studying for two different certifications at the same time. NPower made it very interesting, and the team is accommodating. I decided to finish what I started and never gave up because that’s how I’ll achieve my goals. The interactions with peers and individuals who are in the field have lifted my hopes of one day being in a commanding position. My goal is to work for Google one day and return to the program as a speaker, so I can be a source of encouragement the way others have been to me. Accept the challenge and never give up.

INTERNSHIP Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. Before NPower, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my future. Even though I was attending college for IT, I felt miserable and just went through the motions with little interest. I tried applying to various internships to jumpstart my career to no avail. My motivation to continue studying IT was at an all-time low, and I became so discouraged that I considered switching majors to something completely different. It was during this low-point that I came across NPower. I was excited from the moment I found out about the free certification training and internship/job placement opportunities they provided. When I got accepted, I believed an IT career was within my reach. The program delivered no less than what I expected. The instructors and mentors taught and gave us the proper guidance to have a successful career. Being surrounded by other students working towards the same goals kept me motivated. During the short five months here at NPower, I have created friends and a network that I hope to stay in touch with for life. Being a part of NPower awakened the passion I had for IT and learning and I’m grateful.

IAN CARL ICAZA

21, Clifton

# N P OW E R G R AD S

INTERNSHIP KPMG JOB IN THE MILITARY Engineer, Linguist

MARCELO IGNACIO New Milford, NJ US Army, Army National Guard Currently Serving

I served eight years in the US Army in the capacity of an engineer and linguist dual MOS. I have a finance/banking background as well as prior electrical industry experience. NPower came into fruition as a result of being connected to the veteran’s network. A retired veteran began a second career helping other veterans as a transitional counselor for a nonprofit; he circulated a mass distribution list to inform the community about opportunities such as NPower. NPower is such a unique organization in that the technical instructors are phenomenal and of a top rated caliber which means you are receiving the best IT education there is. The support staff are fabulous as well and want to see you succeed as individuals regardless of whether you are in the veteran or young adult class. For the past five months, NPower has given each student the necessary tools to jumpstart their IT careers. The journey has just begun as the IT industry is rapidly evolving and continuing education is a must if one wishes to stay relevant in this vibrant field.

INTERNSHIP =Space The ability to evaluate and assess all your current resources and conceive a list of tasks needed to accomplish a goal was the weapon my high school gave me to tackle life. After graduating, I planned to build my resume and work experience so that when I left college, I wouldn’t be stuck with debt, lack of knowledge, and less time to plan. Within weeks of pondering, I realized that a great resume builder would be job experience accompanied by a certification that conveys where I excelled. That’s when a friend recommended me to NPower which remains to be the best thing I’ve planned. While at NPower, I’ve not only learned the ins and outs of computers, but how to prepare for the future as well. Following the great teachings from the NPower staff and the obtainment of my certification, I want to rise in my career to become a video game developer and someday give back to the electronic culture that drove me to work so hard. Let’s hope everything goes according to plan.

new jersey

KEISHAWN JOHNSON

19, Union

INTERNSHIP PCS JOB IN THE MILITARY Network Switching Systems Operator and Maintainer

GREGORY KUNZE Seaside Heights, NJ US Army Served 5 Years

I currently live in Seaside Heights, now interning at PCS in Moorestown. I served five years in the US Army as a network switching systems operator and maintainer. Before NPower, I was an Uber driver after getting a degree in finance from Monmouth University. At NPower, I gained the knowledge necessary to pass the A+ certification exams and obtain the base needed to excel at a career in IT support. After NPower, I plan to work in IT support while studying for the Network+ and CySA+ exams, after which my goal is to transition into a career as a cybersecurity consultant.

INTERNSHIP Urban League of Hudson County JOB IN THE MILITARY Recruiter Assistant, Signal and Tactical Wire Specialist, Radio Repairer, Personnel Records Specialist, Truck Driver, Calibration Technician, Officer Candidate, and Chaplain Assistant As a retired veteran of 21 years with the US Army NJ National Guard, I trained as a biomedical equipment and x-ray repairer at Fitzsimmons Army Medical Center in Colorado. I was later employed in the healthcare sector by University Hospital in Newark, repairing medical and diagnostic imaging equipment for 25 years. As a “global ambassador,” I stay ready to make a mission trip anywhere in the world to fulfill specific needs, yielding the humanitarian side of me and emulating my faith. My collegiate background is in the arts/humanities/media with teaching experience for K-12 and college Upward Bound students. Nevertheless, my love for computers has inspired me to migrate and pursue a change of course into the IT field. I thank NPower for granting me that possibility. I am a proud mother and a grandmother of Charles, Sr. and Charles Jr. who reside in Florida.

LYNDA P. MCCLENTON-KHAN

Newark, NJ US Army National Guard Served 21 Years

# N P OW E R G R AD S

INTERNSHIP NPower New Jersey Before attending NPower, I previously lived in Indiana working at a steel mill but couldn’t see myself being there for another year and wanted to make a change toward a better future. At this time, a close friend informed about NPower, leading me to make one of the most significant decisions that kick-started my new adventure towards a brighter future, prompting a big move to New Jersey.

MAILIEN NGUYEN

24, Newark

NPower has taught me so much about the technology I use every day. I now can confidently take apart my computer and reassemble, upgrade, troubleshoot, and maintain it more than I ever did before. Not only does NPower give you critical IT knowledge, but they also provide you with confidence, empowerment, and the social skills to network yourself. My personal goal is to develop apps and design websites. In the future, I plan to work hard in obtaining more certifications, get as much hands-on experience as possible, continuing to learn as much as I can. The best part of IT is that there will always be something to learn.

HIRED AT Bright Star JOB IN THE MILITARY Cavalry Scout I served six years in the US Army as a cavalry scout and long-range resonance specialist. After active duty, I spent time working in several positions from high-end retail to middle management in finance where I noticed the need for computer skills and literacy to stay relevant in the job market. During my research, I came across NPower on Craigslist and decided to look into it. I discovered that the training program was exactly what I was looking for and more. I came into the NPower program with some technical skills and left with the knowledge and experience to begin my career in the IT field. Thanks to NPower, and the on-the-job experience I gained from my internship, I am confident in my ability as an IT professional. I thank NPower for advancing my career knowledge and experience in IT and for assisting me as I pursue my career and education.

new jersey

RICARDO NICHOLS

Weehawken, NJ US Army Served 6 Years

CHIKA OBADIKE 20, South Plainfield

Before NPower, I’d never thought that I would become A+ certified. I previously attended Middlesex County College. It was a beautiful place, and I have full intentions of going back, but it was a little too slow-paced for me. One day, I was hanging out with my friends, and one friend in the group had been busy with what we thought was college. He explained that he had started attending NPower. I asked him the details because it sounded like something that would be perfect not only for the experience with computers but also for the chance that I would be able to become a much more social person. After three short months, I’m certified! In all honesty, I doubted myself every time I was going to take the test. I thought I would fail at least the first time, but the amount of studying and hands-on work we did in class was what made it possible to pass. After NPower, I plan to attend college again to get a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, hoping to further my knowledge.

HIRED AT Ipreo JOB IN THE MILITARY Security Forces I enlisted in the US Air Force as a security forces member, which is equivalent to the Army’s military police. Serving in Europe and the Middle East, I gained an appreciation for other cultures and ethnicities. Upon completing my enlistment, I pursued my lifelong dream of becoming a TV video journalist. Having entered the broadcasting industry during the digital revolution, I noticed that IT was involved in just about everything I did including shooting video on SD cards instead of videotape, editing projects on a PC, and troubleshooting compression and video streaming issues. At NPower, I learned subjects such as networking, cloud storage, and troubleshooting—all concerns I have as a media creator because computers affect just about everything involved with content creation. Now that I’ve soaked up some great fundamentals from the faculty and staff at NPower, I will add these new skills to my set of tools to become a significant player in the digital media industry.

FELIX ORTIZ

Lyons, NJ US Air Force Served 4 Years

# N P OW E R G R AD S

INTERNSHIP First Data Corporation JOB IN MILITARY Operations Specialist I joined the military after receiving my bachelor of science degree in information systems from Strayer University with a minor in computer programming. I served four years active duty in the US Navy as an operations specialist. I had a once in a lifetime opportunity to begin taking graduate courses at Harvard University for software engineering and computer science. However, my graduate dreams were put on hold as I was unable to finish due to deployments overseas and my busy military life. After active duty, I honorably discharged to the Navy Reserves, where I am currently serving until 2020.

RAHEEN PARKER Greenville, NC US Navy, Navy Reserves Currently Serving

I moved to New Jersey in 2017 to work as a data analyst intern at Express Scripts where I learned about the corporate security structure of businesses and the daily challenges that arise with large companies. It created a more profound hunger within me which is why I was ecstatic at the opportunity to advance my IT computer knowledge through the NPower program. I had a firm technical foundation, but NPower helped me grow. From interview preparation to internship opportunities and much more, my confidence level honestly increased. I feel as if the sky’s the limit as I keep gaining valuable knowledge and insight into the vast yet beautiful field of computer science. I cannot thank NPower enough for everything it has taught me and what it continues to show me as I travel down my road to success.

INTERNSHIP Pearson I began to learn the intricacies of a computer right out of high school. I was fascinated by how sophisticated computers are yet how formulaic assembly can be. I took pride in my first computer build. Friends and family took note, and by the end of the year, I constructed two more machines. My good friend spoke to me about a tech program she enrolled in called NPower. I saw this as an opportunity to jumpstart my long-awaited IT career. Julio and Ed were great instructors who shared their knowledge and experiences. Having two different knowledgeable people providing different perspectives enhanced our learning. I have gained a stronger understanding of hardware and advanced insight into networks and the Windows operating systems while learning alongside other bright and ambitious students. After NPower, I aim to gain my Network+ certification, taking a step closer toward my IT career goals. In the future, I hope to come back to NPower with newly acquired knowledge and experience to help the next generation of young IT professionals.

new jersey

RALPH PARRA

23, North Bergen

INTERNSHIP MARS Global Services

JOSE PAZ

After graduating high school, I struggled to figure out what I wanted to do. After considering a career in IT, a family member told me about NPower and the work they do for young adults and veterans. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. As a professional, the people at NPower have helped me grow a lot. NPower has been good to me, and I plan to build upon the strong foundation I have received. I look forward to getting more certifications and furthering my career, and I will forever be thankful for NPower.

21, Clifton

HIRED AT Compuflex JOB IN THE MILITARY Air Traffic Control (Control Tower Supervisor and Radar Final Control) I served 16 years active duty in the US Air Force, separating from the military in Frankfurt, Germany, but spent another two years in Luxembourg working in the aeronautical mapping industry and as an entrepreneur. Over the next 15 years, I worked in the international freight forwarding arena in the States and started my own transportation company in Kuwait and Egypt, but experienced a lay-off in 2017. NPower gave me another opportunity to reinvent myself, and I am now CompTIA A+ certified and excited about the future. NPower’s staff are dedicated people and genuinely interested in my success. Steve, Julio, Ed, Bea, Nicollette, Haniyyah, and Kendall are class acts, and I am blessed to be a part of this NPower family. After graduation, I plan to pursue the Security+ and Amazon Web Services certifications while making a difference in Cloud deployments and security.

RICHARD PETERSON

Asbury, NJ US Air Force Served 16 Years

# N P OW E R G R AD S

INTERNSHIP Jersey City Housing Authority

JONATHAN PIERRE

“Is the problem difficult?” A question I feel does no one any good. I find the real question to be, “Are you willing to step it up, find research, and do the necessary work to solve the problem?” Therefore, I am motivated by my struggles because to me all it means is that I have more to learn. I never admit defeat because I analyze any mistakes and adapt so that they become stepping stones to propel me forward. However, giving up to me is to admit defeat, and I never like to lose. In conclusion, I not only put in my best effort but also prepare myself for any situation.

22, Irvington

INTERNSHIP Atrion JOB IN THE MILITARY Automated Logistical Specialist I joined the US Army at 17 after dropping out of high school, hoping to build structure in my life. Serving gave me a great experience that included teamwork, facing physical and emotional fears, self-discipline, confidence as well as leadership skills. I got married but at 22 years old found myself a single mom and moved back to NJ where I began working in small forklifting business, staying for six years, helping the company bill out millions of dollars. Realizing there was no real future for me there, I began my bachelor’s degree in national security at NJCU and graduated in May of 2017 with honors, and soon after started a master’s in cyber security. I was also presented with the opportunity to go join NPower through NJCU to learn the basics of how computers work. Today, I am currently a cybersecurity intern, A+ certified, and halfway through my master’s. I now experience pride as I watch my dreams come true, grateful for the support of my 14year old son. I owe him everything! NPower gave me the skills to understand computer hardware, and I am confident that anyone with the curiosity and dedication can pursue an IT career.

new jersey

JENNIFER QUINONES Perth Amboy, NJ US Army Served 2 Years

JOB IN THE MILITARY Cavalry Scout

ADAM RAMSEY

Before joining NPower, I had just graduated high school and finished my four-month military training. I wasn’t entirely sure what to do next, but I always wanted to learn more about technology, computers specifically, as I’ve had that passion and a drive since a very young age. NPower significantly increased my knowledge of IT. The program opened a new, bigger world of opportunity to me. My goal is to keep growing while also making a positive difference in this world.

Vernon Township, NJ Army National Guard Currently Serving

Before NPower, I was a student at Rutgers University and did a couple of jobs the previous year, and my favorite was a technical support role at a private school. NPower helped me achieve a goal that I have had my eyes on ever since I obtained my associate’s in computer science. I always wanted to get my A+ certification while still being able to finish my degree and NPower helped me achieve that goal and then some. I am eternally grateful to them for giving me the opportunity to accomplish one of my goals. Thanks to NPower, I am excited to see what the future holds, especially with all the enrichment and possibilities presented to me. I plan to continue pursuing more knowledge in this industry, all while applying the skill set NPower has provided me. My internship is still undetermined because I will be in boot camp and technical school for the remainder of the year. I will be returning in January to finish what I started with NPower.

ADRIAN RODRIGUEZ 23, Fairview US Air Force Currently Serving

# N P OW E R G R AD S

INTERNSHIP City of Jersey City

ROGERS SANCHEZ 19, Jersey City

I have always been a fan of computers. The first computer I saw made me question what was inside that box that made it work like magic. Before NPower, I worked side jobs, but I wanted to enter the IT field not knowing how to get my foot in the door. I saw the NPower website, and from there I decide to apply. Before I knew it, I got accepted. The class was great! I learned about devices that I didn’t know existed. I got hands-experience on disassembling computers and making our network cables. After NPower, I will continue to get more certificates like the Network+ certification and continue to grow alongside technology.

I always had a natural inclination to learn about computers ever since my family had one that could read floppy disks. Technology makes life easier for others when used for practical solutions to real-world problems. With that in mind, I decided to pursue my bachelor’s degree in computer science at NJIT but felt a need to learn the practical IT side of the equation. My school directed me to the NPower program which has genuinely empowered me with the practical knowledge of computers for me to use as my foundation. I plan to build on that foundation by obtaining more certifications and taking on the respective higher-level tech positions. Eventually, I want to be in a place where I can return to NPower and encourage the next generation by exemplifying it is possible to reach your dreams if you set a good foundation.

new jersey

JUAN TARACENA 21, Newark

HIRED ATâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; Atlas

JAHZIEL TORRES 23, Rahway

My computer repair/troubleshooting background primarily consisted of helping family members with standard computer and internet issues for the most part. While attending NPower, my overall understanding of IT has developed exponentially, surpassing all my expectations thanks to our instructors and the curriculum they prepared for the course. The interactions with IT professionals along with various site visits have demonstrated the multitude of opportunities that are within reach. Overall, I am grateful that the NPower staff and instructors provided me with valuable tools I can apply to my career going forward. Upon completion of the program, my goals are to continue building my skills to thrive in the IT field and assist others along the way that are pursuing careers in IT.

TBD

STEPHANIA SUQUITANA

24, Harrison

# N P OW E R G R AD S

INTERNSHIP Grant Associates JOB IN THE MILITARY Food Service Specialist

SHAIF UDDIN

Brooklyn, NY US Marine Corps Served 4 Years

I served four years in the US Marine Corps as a food service specialist. After I finished with my enlistment in 2010, I enrolled in a college for computer information technology where I learned JAVA, JAVA Script, HTML, PHP, CSS, and SQL programming languages. After my graduation, I became employed at a company called Blue Shield Capital as a system administration where I worked for three years improving the infrastructure of their sales process. I found about NPower from my brother where I learned about the hardware of a computer and troubleshooting the network. I took the chance to get my A+ certification to improve my career. Now I am confident in my ability as an IT professional to advance my career. Thanks to NPower for all the knowledge to jumpstart my career in the IT industry. Thank you, NPower for this fantastic opportunity.

INTERNSHIP Pearson JOB IN THE MILITARY Instructor/Writer at the US Army CBRN School I served three and half years in the Army as a CBRN Specialist, and I have been in the US Army Reserves since 2003 as an instructor. After active duty, I went to work as a caseworker for foster care and adoption in NYC. When my daughter was born, I left the workforce to raise her. She started kindergarten in September, and I started looking to get back to work. I noticed that technology is a significant driving force and that we are more dependent on technology than we were 10-15 years ago. Therefore, when a fellow veteran sent me an email in December about NPower offering the CompTIA A+ certification course, I decided to look into it and applied to the program. I came to the NPower program without any technical skills, and now I have the knowledge and experience to pursue my career in the IT field. Through this program, I have gained confidence and planned to continue to expand my knowledge in IT.

new jersey

DORIS URBINA-HERNANDEZ Union, NJ US Army, Army Reserves Currently Serving

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS 5!

LAUNCHING TECH CAREERS. TRANSFORMING LIVES. NPowerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s model is a solution to building a diverse tech pipeline. Our graduates launch tech jobs with an average starting salary of $41,000â&#x20AC;&#x201C;$50,000 and are positioned to advance their career path, enabling them to earn more than their peers in lower-wage jobs through age 65. High earnings potential is the key to breaking generational cycles of poverty, positioning our students and their families to achieve long-term economic success.

new jersey

WE ARE THE FUTURE OF WORK Through partner and tech industry collaboration, our free training model is a workforce development solution for the future. We prepare untapped, diverse talent to fill the nearly 6 million jobs expected to require tech skills by 2020. Our graduates of over 3,000 veterans and young adults are hired at over 100 diverse companies and nonprofits as interns and fulltime employees.

80%

NPower is on a mission to place 15,000 young adults and veterans in entry-level, career-track digital jobs by 2022—and on a path to serving 50,000. Part of this goal is our newly launched ‘40 by 22’ initiative, which aims to expand enrollment of young women of color into NPower’s programming, supported in part by the Citi Foundation’s Pathways to Progress initiative.

Of students who enroll graduate Of alumni get jobs or continue their education

(Based on NPower’s national average 2016-2017)

# N P OW E R G R AD S

THANK YOU... TO OUR EMPLOYMENT PARTNERS, SPONSORS & FUNDERS AT&T

Ipreo

Atlas

Jersey City Housing Authority

Atrion

JPMorgan Chase & Co

Bank of America

KPMG

BNY Mellon

MARS Global Services

Bright Star

PCS

Broadridge Financial Services, Inc.

Pearson

Citigroup

The Ainslie Foundation

City of Jersey City

The Bob Woodruff Foundation

City of Newark

The Harriet & Jeannette Weinberg Foundation

Compluflex

The Hyde & Watson Foundation

DOL

Urban League of Hudson County

DOL NJ

Verizon

First Data Corp.

=Space

Grant Associates Investors Bank

FOR HOSTING OUR GRADUATION

TO OUR VOLUNTEERS BNY Mellon Tony Mayo Lee Stephens Broadridge Vincent Amatulli Brooksource Elle Armistead Matt Mursten Mackenzie Scheier City of Newark Seth Wainer Dun & Bradstreet Dennis Creary Fidelity Investments Natalie Brathwaite Matthew Savage IBM Nelly Akoth

KPMG Anne Baker Susan Berkenbush Ray Byrnes Martina Chow Holly Fox Darryl Harris Rodney Helsens Rik Jones Brad Kudrick Steve Nguyen Dominick Regina Scott Satine Andreza Santos Tafari Taylor Sean Toale Satoshi Tsuboi Patrick Yun

Pearson David Alick Lucy Chua Lisa Doorly Gail Fierstein Victoria Hayden Joshua Richards Stacey Terry Peggy Young

Liberty Savings Federal Credit Union Karen Velasquez

World of Money Sabrina Lamb

Oracle Delores Rochester

RBC Capital Markets Jeremy Sonnenburg SPHERE Technology Solutions Rita Gurevich Verizon Mike Mason

World Wide Technology, Inc Chris Black

NPOWER SUPPORTERS UNDERWRITERS