NPower Maryland Spring 2023 Tech Fundamentals Graduation Book

TECH FUNDAMENTALS

Spring 2023 Tech Fundamentals Graduation Program

WELCOME REMARKS / INTRO

Demetrius Goodwin

NPower

REMARKS / WELCOME / THANK YOU

Bruce Williams

NPower

THANK YOU / ALUMNI AND STUDENT SPEAKER INTROS

Demetrius Goodwin

NPower

ALUMNI SPEAKER

Mikenzhie Smith

Cohort 13 Alumni

STUDENT SPEAKERS

Sadé Beverley

Blake Morris

CLASS HONORS / REMARKS

Bruce Williams

NPower

AWARD PRESENTATIONS

Bruce Williams

NPower

NPower Core Values Award

Kennedy Simmons

NPower Defying All Odds Award

Xiiya Dey

NPower Javaun A. Wright Leadership Award

Sean Neal

KEYNOTE SPEAKER INTRO

Bea Tassot

NPower

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Toni Benson

AWARDING OF CERTIFICATES / STAFF RECOGNITION

NPower Staff

CLOSING REMARKS

Anthony Butler

NPower

PHOTOS

NPower Staff

RECEPTION

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 www.npower.org.

National Board of Directors

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

Gail Fierstein | Vice President SVP, Global Head of People CaaStle

Stephen M. Murphy | Secretary Sr. Managing Director, Financial Services Technology Global Lead Accenture

Viola Maxwell-Thompson | Treasurer CEO Emeritus Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF)

Michael Fugett | Board Observer NPower TX Graduate - VP, Production Management - U.S. Army - Citi

Luisana Estevez | Board Observer NPower NY Graduate - VP, Data Center Production Operations Engineer - Meta

Gerald Charles Jr. VP and Head of Product for Omni Customer Servicing

Capital One

Craig Cuffie Chief Procurement Officer HSBC

Dean Del Vecchio EVP, Chief of Operations and CIO

The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America

Ami Desai Chief of Staff to Founder, Chairman & CEO Vista Equity Partners

Guillermo Diaz, Jr. Founder & CEO Conectado, Inc.

Michael Fey Co-Founder & CEO Island

Kateau James Global Chief Operating Officer Deloitte Technology

Tony Kerrison Chief Technology Officer Bank of America

Debra King Digital and Technology Officer Bunge

Jennifer Kleinert Chief Operating Officer, Enterprise Infrastructure Operations & Technology Citi

MARYLAND REGIONAL ADVISORY BOARD

Frank Baitman | Chair Global Head of Digital Strategy Stealth Mode Startup

Sandra A. Bempong Grants Officer Community Health & Social Impact, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield

Eboni Fotang Director, Quality and Mission Excellence Northrop Grumman

Michael Robert DiBlasio

Sr. Technical Program Manager Amazon Web Services

Mark Patterson SVP, Chief of Staff to Chairman & CEO Cisco Systems

Frank Pedersen Partner Apply Digital

David Reilly Tech Excecutive

Diane Schwarz VP, Chief Information Officer Johnson Controls

Dwight D. Shepherd REAR ADMIRAL (RETIRED) Executive Strategy & Standards, BISO IBM

Anupam Singhal Senior Vice President and Business Head Tata Consultancy Services

Josh Sutton Chief Executive Officer Agorai

Peter Trizzino President Dell Technologies Select

Gayle Guilford (Retired) Chief Information Security Officer Baltimore City Government

Scott Harris President, VIAcode

Blair Johnson Consultant

Natasha Murphy Director of Health Policy Center for American Progress

Sangy Vatsa

Founder Digital Insights, LLC

Bertina Ceccarelli

Chief Executive Officer NPower

Andrew Parlock

Director, New Business, Defense, ICEYE

Bruce Williams

Retired, Retired

Commencement Speaker

Toni S. Benson

Chief, Cyber Defense Education and Training

Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

Toni is the Chief of the Cyber Defense Education and Training(CDET) organization at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) supporting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Her roles within the organization are to provide a strategic vision around training and education to assist in combating the cybersecurity workforce shortage.

Prior to joining the DHS in 2015, Ms. Benson spent most of her career serving in the United States Air Force, where she served as a Communications Officer. She also worked with other U.S. government agencies and private sector companies as a contractor, in support of various cyber initiatives. In 2022, Ms. Benson was selected as the SANS Practitioner of the Year. Ms. Benson holds a B.S. from Delaware State University, a M.S. from the University of Maryland Global Campus, and an Executive Leadership certification from Harvard University. Ms. Benson is also a Certified Information Systems Security Professional.

Alumni Speaker

Mikenzhie Smith

Tech Fundamentals, Fall 2022 NPower Community Helpdesk

“Don’t be afraid to take a leap of faith especially if you want to take a huge pivot and are currently stagnant. There’s nothing wrong with being different and trying different things, surround yourself with people taking the path you want to take. Don’t be afraid to network, don’t be shy, try your best because no one’s perfect. And last but not least: don’t be afraid to ask for help! If I didn’t ask, I wouldn’t have gotten my current opportunity in the Baltimore Community Helpdesk!”

Student Speaker

Blake Morris Tech Fundamentals, Spring 2023

“What led me down the path to tech was that I could bring my people with me. Tech is such an open field for anyone that wants to get put on. The reason I chose NPower was because I love the Baltimore region’s origin story, a man wanted to give back to his people.”

Student Speaker

Sadé Beverley Tech Fundamentals, Spring 2023

“One thing I would tell my younger self is how proud I am of her, for overcoming fears and accomplishing goals she “never” thought she could accomplish”

Certification

80% 39% 92% Graduation/Retention Women Graduating

The curriculum for this program includes a NetAcad learning module courtesy of the Cisco Networking Academy.

Graduate Bios

Dagmawi Admassu 24, Silver Spring, MD

I chose Npower because it is an organization that is committed to helping individuals from all backgrounds to learn, grow, and achieve their goals. I have a great passion for technology and firmly believe that it has the power to make a positive impact on our lives. At the same time, I am committed to using my skills to ensure that everyone is safe and protected in the digital world, as technology can also bring about potential risks and challenges. I have a strong desire to help those who are most in need, and I am committed to ensuring their safety and well-being so that they can lead happy and healthy lives. My ultimate dream is to make a positive impact on the world by improving the lives of others, and I am dedicated to achieving this goal. After completing my time at NPower, I plan to work for technology companies while also continuing to develop and grow my own business. I believe that this combination will allow me to gain valuable experience and skills while also pursuing my entrepreneurial goals. I believe that by leveraging the resources and support provided by Npower, I can achieve my personal and professional aspirations.

Ayomide Akano 22, Upper Marlboro, MD

Before joining NPower, I was still figuring out the specific path I wanted to take in computer science. I decided that IT (Information Technology) was more balanced regarding my interest in both hardware and software. I chose this program because of their mission to help people break into IT. NPower, to me, means a chance for an opportunity to be better for myself and others. A perfect future after Npower would be one in which I can put the skills learned from the program to effective use. This would ensure that I get my feet wet as I gain experience and have more opportunities for financial growth.

Hikmatullah Bahramee 21, Bethesda, MD

My love for technology led me to NPower. NPower means family to me because, around family, I feel cared for, respected, and valued. The best moment for me in NPower has to be when Mr. Butler joins professional development, sometimes on Thursdays. I like the sentence he says, “Sir, Maam, you are worthy!” it is such a simple sentence, yet most of us might be hearing it for the first time. In a perfect world, I would like to enroll in NPower’s advanced programs and obtain a tech job to get real-world experience and be able to support my family and myself better.

Qudratullah Bahramee 21, Sterling, VA

My passion for technology and the desire for a better life for my family have led me to NPower. Originally coming from Afghanistan, where access to technology is limited. I was so glad to see that there is an organization like Npower that provides support and guidance to individuals like me who want to launch careers in the tech industry. NPower means change to me, not just in terms of personal and career growth but also in transforming families and societies. The stories shared by NPower’s management team, instructors, and alumni during the program were a powerful source of inspiration and motivation for me because I could relate to their stories and see that success is achievable for everyone, including me. My dream is to make a positive impact by providing greater access to technology and education. Through the Npower Tech Fundamentals program, I am well on track to launch a successful career in the tech industry and take the initial steps toward my dreams.

Sade’ Beverley 24, Annapolis, MD

Before NPower, I was a dental assistant for five years. As I was continuing with dental, I realized that I no longer wanted to pursue being a dental hygienist or dental assistant. I have always had an interest in IT.

And how the industry can grow beyond measures. I chose Npower because I knew of a few individuals that graduated from the program & they are successful with the knowledge that they have gained from the program. In a perfect world, I would want a job in cybersecurity or IT in healthcare. One thing I would tell my younger self is how proud I am of her for overcoming fears and accomplishing goals she “never” thought she could accomplish.

Catherine

Block 38, Chesapeake Beach, MD

Military Spouse: Air National Guard

Before NPower, I always wanted to pursue a career in science and was on a path toward a biology degree. After leaving a promising career at a local National Laboratory, I decided to step away from school and work to focus on caring for my family.

As a military spouse recently looking to reenter the workforce, I researched programs that provide skills and certifications to refresh my abilities and resume. While transitioning to Chesapeake Beach, MD, I found NPower and realized that this program provided opportunities to help military spouses advance their careers, and I realized I had to take advantage of it knowing I fit the qualifications. Not knowing what to expect going in, I was extremely nervous to take on such an immersive professional development program, yet I saw the value that the necessities of networking and continued coursework would provide in the job searching market. This program has provided me with more knowledge and guidance than I ever expected, with my favorite part being the professional development days. What was more valuable than the instruction was the confidence it helped build as I pivoted and transitioned back into the working sector and something I will forever be grateful for as a NPower Alumni.

Miranda Bolden 23, Waldorf, MD

I chose NPower not only because it was tuition-free but also because their website was so useful when describing what to expect from this program. Every time I have interacted with someone from NPower, they made me feel like I matter. This is more than just an educational opportunity; it is where you can always find some sort of support for anything. Professional development has left me feeling properly prepared to enter the workplace. They have also taught me that it is okay to be myself in the workplace. In a perfect world, after NPower, I can develop my coding skills more, find the perfect job for me and take care of myself without living in lack.

Jonathan Catchings 27, Upper Marlboro, MD

Before NPower, I was working in the IT field as a recruiter. After so many years of that, I felt my motivation to recruit for IT positions was running low. I became more interested in the jobs that I was recruiting for and decided to make a change professionally. I chose NPower because I was looking for extra help to get my foot in the door and also a way to gain more technical knowledge. NPower helped me realize that there are many people in situations similar to mine. I found a loving community that would help me and motivate me to finish my duties within the program. My future after NPower looks like more sun and less rain. I have a feeling it will lead me to the place that I want to go.

Demond Chesson 25, McDonough, GA

I wanted to be a detective growing up, I remember watching reruns of Law & Order. I wanted to go into a major government agency like the FBI or Homeland Security. I was nudged by my family to test the waters. So, I found a 3-semester program at a technical college near where I lived and put in my best effort. It turns out the fashion of how work flows in IT fits well with how my thought processes problem-solving.

I chose Npower primarily because of coincidence. I was already looking for IT positions in the DMV but was not confident in my technical skills and background. Once I was led to a program that is tuition-free and provides top-of-the-line training, it was a no-brainer to apply. Npower is honestly a God send for me. It covered my main concerns of not having the training and knowledge needed to excel in IT and not being able to risk trying an expensive but limited-resource online program. In a perfect world, I aspire to get a good entry-level position while obtaining more certifications and knowledge and, by 30 years old, to surpass 6 figure earnings along with a good work/life balance.

Kaden Crandell 18, Gwynn Oak, MD

Before attending NPower, I was attending Stevenson University, where I was working towards getting my bachelor’s degree in information systems. I took time away from school because I felt as though it was not the right time for me, and during that period, I applied to NPower. Technology has always been my passion ever since I was a kid, from troubleshooting devices that my family was having issues with to even constructing my own robot at robotics camp. I always knew IT was going to be my desired career path. NPower has set me up in ways that I would not believe, and I am confident that I will be able to secure a job after the cohort. After graduation, I look forward to going back to school to get my bachelor’s in computer science.

Allek Demetrius 22, Brooklyn, NY

When I was growing up, I was majorly undecided on what I wanted to do. I have noticed how many people talked about work as if it were a chore or something done just to get bills paid and food on the table, but the idea of having to dread where I would be spending a chunk of my adult life seemed unfeasible. I wanted to break this mold and have a place to work where I would have fun, so I decided to delve into art. Unfortunately, I did not have much talent, and at home, I did not receive the necessary support to get me through my struggles, so I gave up on art and became undecided again. It was not until my senior year of high school that I fell in love with computer science because of my AP Computer Science teacher, Mr. Cleveland. I have a thirst for knowledge and cannot wait to learn more about tech as my career starts.

Xiiya Dey 25, Baltimore, MD

When I was growing up, I always wanted to be a princess and have a huge castle. Now, I want to be a Queen, build an empire, and take care of the people I love. When I heard about NPower, I was in a transition of discovering myself and going through the hardship of being in a position to raise my child on my own. I knew at that moment I had to take advantage of the opportunity of potentially being an NPower trainee. I remember that day like it was yesterday, I filled out my application online and just prayed that if this opportunity was meant for me, it would be. I was hungry for the education to better myself, especially as a young woman of color. Being an NPower trainee has opened my eyes to technology in a beautiful way. Not only was I able to get an introduction to IT with NPower, but I also was able to get more knowledge on Google Coursera while gaining a certificate with each module I completed. Being able to do so and accomplish that made me feel like the sky was the limit. My favorite part about being a trainee at NPower is that not only are you getting the knowledge that you need, but you also have such a huge support system that encourages you and uplifts you. Even on my worst days, showing up for training has made my day better. You have people at NPower that root for you to win, and that is the best part about being a trainee at NPower. After I graduate, I plan to keep pursuing my career in tech and making my sister Kayla Marie proud.

Jalen Edmondson 23, Baltimore, MD

I have always wanted to support my family in the best way possible, and this will happen by making a transition into the IT field. I have always been great with computers and phones; it has become so natural for me because I grew up using technology so much. I found NPower through a friend, and they had good things to say about it. It seemed like a family just from day one, everyone wants you to succeed, so it pushed me to want to stay and complete this program. The professional development program has helped me a lot because I did not have particularly good interview or communication skills. When I graduate from NPower, I hope to get my foot in the door and eventually transition into the cybersecurity field.

Nia Evans 25, Bowie, MD

Before I came across Npower, I was unsure of what I wanted to do with my future. I knew that I wanted to do something creative, but I also wanted a career that felt secure. I was nervous because the STEM field had never been my strong suit. But through NPower, I was able to build my confidence and reach my full potential. One of my favorite moments was the first step climb exam we took. I had been stressing out the whole week that I would not be able to memorize all the hardware components, but to my surprise, I ended up getting an 80%. At this moment, I knew that I would not only be able to learn, but I could also succeed in IT. I chose NPower because I really admired the culture and how hands-on the staff is with our success. NPower has inspired me to pay it forward, and I am excited to come back and assist as an alum for future classes. I hope to expand my IT career after the course is over, I would like to try my hand at various careers within tech until I find my chosen home.

Kevin Fermaint

22, Columbia, MD

As a kid, I wanted to be an Engineer that worked on computers. Working on hardware or helping fix software problems, the troubleshooting aspect always grabbed my attention. Prior to knowing about NPower, my aspirations and dreams were all about obtaining a technology position where I could help others and better my skills as an upcoming IT professional. Since I’ve always been interested in analytical problems and the world of computing, pursuing a tech career was something I have dreamed of but did not know where to begin. Later, I found out about NPower, which gives people like me the opportunity to enter the IT career field while also teaching us professional skills when it comes to climbing the corporate ladder. While in the program, I learned information that will stick with me for the rest of my career. After NPower, I hoped to finish my college education while having an IT position as a method of gaining experience in the workforce. My career goal is to work as a back-end developer for a company that values me as an individual.

Daquan Gibson

19, Baltimore, MD

Before NPower, I wanted to be a Computer Engineer and work at NASA to develop rockets. My interest in technology is what lead me down the path of NPower. I see this as a stepping stone to further my understanding of technology. NPower has changed how I view technology and improved my life on a professional level. I learned a lot from the professional development days because I can now be comfortable in a business setting. The skills I have acquired from these days are very important and valuable. Moreover, when NPower is completed, I see myself working as a network manager for a large or medium-sized organization. I could talk to my younger self, I would tell myself that the knowledge I will learn will be used to help people and fix problems.

Kyle Grannum

23, Fredericksburg, VA

My father and my uncle both work in the IT field, so I knew I would have a great amount of support going into this field. I chose NPower because it was a wonderful opportunity that I could not pass on. The program fit so well into my work schedule. NPower saved me from the dark times I was in before the program started. I had gone through a traumatic event and was lost, not knowing what I wanted to do with my life. I really received a purpose. The standout moments for me were when we had group discussions about personal things. Learning more about the people in the cohort. Going to class every day felt easier, and it never felt like it was 4 hours. I believe all the mentors here have been incredibly supportive and have inspired me each day to keep pursuing a career in tech. The mentors and instructors do not try to be perfect, and they let us know it is okay to make mistakes. That is the biggest positive when it comes to this organization. I just want to make everyone proud. NPower took a chance on me, and I do not want to let them down. I would like them to look at me as a success and as someone they are proud to bring up in future cohorts.

Barbara Horne

51, Odenton, MD

Veteran

Employment in military: 25A Signal Officer

As a veteran who has proudly served my country for over 22 years, I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity to attend NPower training and embark on a new chapter in my career. The program offered a unique opportunity to bridge the gap in my IT knowledge and gain the foundational skills required for a successful tech career. NPower’s mission to provide free technology training and mentorship to veterans and young adults from underserved communities resonated deeply with me.

My time with NPower has been an incredible journey filled with learning, growth, and empowerment. Through the program, I have gained invaluable professional and technical skills and, more importantly, a supportive community and expanded network.

26, Baltimore, MD

U.S Navy Employment in military: Operation Specialist

Growing up, I wanted to be a videographer taking videos/photos, and editing videos and photos. Tech has always been a passion of mine; my dad was my inspiration to get me into the tech field. He has been in tech for as long as I can remember. NPower was a program told to me by a family friend. NPower means to me growth and education. While being here, I have met some amazing people along the way. My favorite moments during the program were when I would get a new certification, I would be extremely excited. I have benefited from professional development by learning how to interview and how to be confident in an interview.

27, Silver Spring, MD

Before NPower, I have been working in the healthcare field as a therapist for the past seven years. I love helping people and advocating for their rights because that was something I never had growing up. There came a point in my life where I felt stuck. I felt like I was not improving in life and wanted more. I’ve always been interested in Information Technology but was afraid because I did not know anyone in my personal life that could help me get into it. I started researching different ways to break into IT, which led me to numerous different IT boot camps. I spoke to eight boot camp programs, and they quoted me, but I just did not feel like I would get the attention or dedication that I was looking for in a program. I started looking on Facebook for programs and other ways to get into IT without having to spend all that money. I came across NPower, and from the moment they saw my applications to this day, they have had my interest and goal as their number one priority. I do not feel like I am going through training or anything while being at NPower. I feel like I belong, and everyone here wants to see my growth and success. The amount of support that NPower shows their trainee is a lot. I am so fortunate to have come across this.

Aaron Jordan

Massa Kanneh

NPower has not only prepared me for the tech workforce but has also driven me to be the best I can be. After NPower, I plan to complete my degree while gaining experience through tech with the help of my certifications. If I could tell my younger self something, it would be that there’s light at the end of the tunnel and not to give up so easily.

When I was younger, I always knew I wanted to be an engineer. Growing up, I was always handson when it came to tech. I went to this robotic convention in high school, and the technology was amazing, and ever since, I have just been stuck on how things operate. NPower has helped me understand the fundamentals of tech. The biggest moments that I cherish are how much my classmates supported each other. Npower has helped me be the best version of myself and brought a lot out of me that I did not know was even within me. I thank NPower for that, and after the program is over, I will be putting what I learned to effective use at a help desk.

Kristian Lancaster 21, Baltimore, MD

Blessn Lewis 21, Catonsville, MD

Dyanni Lewis

20, Baltimore, MD

What led me down the path to tech is my dad because I grew up watching him build computers from scratch. That was his absolute passion. He loved it. People would send him their computers/ CPUs to fix, and he would do it in no less than 48 hours. It was just very inspiring to see. What NPower means to me is leadership, a support team, and a great program to teach you the ins and outs of technology overall. In a perfect world, what my future looks like is I would say coding because I find it interesting, and it is a great field to get into. What I would tell my younger self is definitely to have more confidence and never let pride get in the way of your destiny. Lastly, this world is yours you can do whatever you want in your life and whatever your passion is, your purpose, stand on it till the end because, in the end, it’s all worth it.

Paul McDonald

50, Baltimore, MD

U.S Navy, Served 4 years

Employment in military: Fire & Crash Department. Weapons & Supply Department

I love creating beautiful images using different Graphics software apps. I figured computers would be a distinguished career to get into. NPower has more effectively trained me to study for high-tech-related exams than doing it by myself without help. My favorite moments are playing tech quiz games using Kahoot and Jeopardy on Zoom with my fellow classmates. The professional development classes helped me build confidence and improved my interview skills.

When I was very young, I wanted to be an astronaut, but during my junior year of high school, I wanted to be a pharmacist. Before NPower, I wanted to learn how to code or learn cyber security. I have always been strong in math and science. As a military veteran, NPower was very appealing. NPower is a great way to diversify my skill set. The standout project will be earning my CompTIA certifications. The professional development has sharpened my ability to interview. Ideally, after NPower Fundamentals, I will be accepted into an advanced program.

Dawit Mengistie 21, Silver Spring, MD

Before NPower, I was struggling to look for opportunities in the tech field, unsure if I wanted to remain in the computer science field. This program has helped me regain my passion for tech, as well as providing resources and connecting me with the people who are passionate about helping me. NPower changed the trajectory of my life immensely. In the time that I needed it most, NPower was a beacon of light in my life. Now I have all the tools needed for an IT job and grow from there.

Patrick McMahon 43, Ellicott City, MD Military Veteran

What led me down the path to tech was that I could bring my people with me. Tech is such an open field for anyone that wants to get put on. The reason I chose NPower was because I love the Baltimore region’s origin story. A man wanted to give back to his people. It is awesome and very inspiring. NPower means greatness and teamwork. Working with all my people inside of Discord, getting to know each other’s stories. I am such a good interviewee because of NPower; our professional development classes have helped me tremendously.

When I was attending high school at Baltimore’s Polytechnic Institute, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, but I did know that I wanted to do something with computer science. I went to college in hopes of achieving a degree in computer science, but I very quickly realized that college was not for me. I ended up leaving after only one semester and was ready to give up on my dream of getting into the tech field and getting a CDL l. I didn’t end up doing that, but I found myself working warehouse jobs and realized quickly that I had to take a step back and make a new plan. My sister told me about a program that her friend taught that gets you ready for tech careers. So, I took a chance in hopes that it would be the stepping stone that I need to get into the cybersecurity field, where I can hopefully do database administration or eventually even run a company. The sky is the limit, and I am ready to see what the future holds for me.

Blake Morris 21, Baltimore, MD

Sean Neal 20, Baltimore, MD

38, Bowie, MD

Military Spouse

Before NPower, I was working as a caregiver and was looking for a program to get into the IT field. I wanted to take my love of people and caring for them and transfer it to IT world. My friend Jenny told me about NPower. I decided to apply because I had a passion for helping others using the technology tools and skills that were offered to me through NPower. I learned so much about computers, and I am building a future career in networking and starting my own business as a service heart in the IT field.

Growing up, I had dreams of becoming a lawyer, but during middle and high school, I completed a vocational program and obtained my GNA license. I have held my license for six years by working in various nursing homes. Although I enjoyed what I did, I knew I could not stand being a GNA any longer. As days went on, I noticed the rise in IT development. I decided to pursue NPower because of the numerous resources they provide. NPower has been life-changing for me in so many ways. I have started to find myself within myself. I will forever be grateful. Soon I see myself happily pursuing an IT career.

Christelle Noudjou

Korin Outlaw 24, Baltimore, MD

Simone Patrick 25, Baltimore, MD

Before NPower, I wanted to be a forensic scientist. I was always interested in STEM. I went the route of science and technology and realized that it wasn’t a great fit for me. I chose NPower because I saw this as a great opportunity that provided the funding for a career that I was interested in. NPower means a lot to me because I feel like this was a great head start into my career. I’ve made a lot of great connections and met a lot of great people. I’ve benefited a lot from the professional development experience because it provided me with a lot of great tips that I have used outside of the workplace, not just professional tips. After NPower, I plan to pursue a career in UX/UI design. I would tell my younger self to relax & that you’ve got this.

Brion Peoples 23, Parkville, MD

As a child, I aspired to be an artist, particularly a comic book artist and spent my free time creating and drawing my own characters. However, my path took a different turn due to my grandmother, Darlene Dorsey, who shared stories of her work in tech and her interactions with influential figures like Grace Hopper. Additionally, an event where the group Lizard Squad shut down the Microsoft Xbox Servers in 2014 fueled my determination to prevent such disruptions in the future. I chose to join the Npower program because of its impressive partnerships and success stories and found it to be an opportunity for networking and skill-building. Professional development and mentoring events, such as resume refinement with James, have been invaluable in my journey. My favorite moment from NPower was the building experience. In the future, I envision myself as a PenTester, living freely and stress-free.

Mia Pomranky

37, LaPlata, MD

Military Spouse

When I was growing up, I wanted to be a flight attendant. Before I joined NPower, my aspirations and dreams were to work as a translator at the United Nations. I decided to switch careers and shift into tech and chose NPower because It had a lot to offer. Things such as mentorship, internships, and working on mock interviews. NPower means a fresh start, a new chance, and hope. A standout project was working on public speaking while presenting IT articles that we chose. I benefited from the professional development classes by improving my resume and getting it ready for future jobs, practicing my elevator pitch, and working on the most common interview questions. I will be taking more classes after obtaining my A+.

Keith Powers

22, Baltimore, MD

After high school, I really didn’t know what I wanted out of a career. I tried giving college a shot, but it was not for me. One day my school guidance counselor emailed me some information about NPower, so I completed the application, and shortly after, I began working towards having a career in the IT field. Thanks to NPower, the resources, and the opportunities they provide, I have grown in many ways physically, mentally, and emotionally. My confidence in myself and knowing all this hard work I’ve put in will pay off in the end as long as I continue to work hard is all thanks to NPower. I have always believed in myself, but now I am ready to put my best foot forward and get all that I can out of the IT field. Thank you, NPower, for believing in me.

My aspirations and dreams before coming to NPower were to provide for my family in the best way I possibly could. The idea of growth and improvement led me down a tech career, the process of technology always getting better and defining the way the world works. I chose NPower because they teach and mentor folks wanting to change their lives. A favorite moment I have in the program is understanding and realizing that even though people with experience are still learning, nobody knows everything, and it was refreshing to learn alongside my peers. In a perfect world, my future after NPower looks like me using the skills and knowledge acquired here to give my child the childhood every child should have while giving back to the community in some way.

After graduating college with a degree in public health, I started my job search looking for full-time jobs in healthcare. This process was very difficult for me because of how competitive the job market was and how little I had to leverage. Not only that, but my career aspirations were still unclear, and it showed during my attempted interviews. It wasn’t until I ran into my friend who talked about NPower’s workforce development program and told me how much it changed her life. This immediately sparked my interest and shifted my career path. Throughout the program, I solidified my personal development and learned valuable technical skills. I also met new people and developed strong relationships.

Thomas Rawlings III 25, Hagerstown, MD

Reggie Santiago 24, Columbia, MD

Aniya Smith

20, Baltimore, MD

Before I started NPower I was unsure about my path in life, all I knew was how to sustain and get by. Growing up I wanted to be everything I thought could make me successful but growing older I realized I wanted to choose a path that was helpful to my people, necessary and everlasting, not to mention forever improving. This is what made me start getting into technology, there are so many ways it can help people and the possibilities are limitless.

I chose NPower because the company presented itself to be a great steppingstone opportunity and targeted to help people who come from communities like mine. Underprivileged, overlooked, judged & so much more. But I am so much more than that and NPower recognizes that also. NPower, to me, means community. The people here do their best to make you feel comfortable and accepted no matter where you come from. During NPower, I had a few things that I enjoyed, I liked the lab questions where we, as trainees, had to put ourselves into professional technical roles and produce solutions to whatever the lab was. The guidance and reassurance throughout the whole organization are extremely helpful. The best thing to do is take advantage.

The future is full of opportunities for me, I am more confident after NPower.

Delores Taylor

56, Philadelphia, PA

U.S Marine Corps, Served 4 years

Employment in military: Personnel

Administrative Clerk, 0151

While in the Marines, my job was heavily computer-based, with MS-DOS as my first OS. This new tool and skill were fascinating to me, but women were not allowed to pursue tech fields at the time. When I saw the opportunity with NPower, I decided now was my chance. I did not know that programs like NPower existed for adults, so I was ecstatic to learn and take on the challenge. NPower means to me that the only thing that can limit me is myself. As I have never had professional development or mentoring before, it felt beneficial to build upon my personal brand with advice from others.

In a perfect world, I would be a web developer after NPower so that I could constantly create new sites for clients.

Jawan Taylor 24, Columbia, MD

I’ve always wanted to be an engineer growing up, I’ve explored other options but being able to change people’s lives with innovation has always intrigued me. In high school my classes were focused on different types of engineering (mechanical, electrical, software) once I learned how to code, I fell in love with it. I have been searching for a program to make me feel as involved as my career academy in high school and then I stumbled upon NPower. Aside from the interactive work provided for us, the instructors have been incredibly relatable and understanding. Growing up, there were not a lot of places for me to feel comfortable learning and growing. But NPower has provided me with opportunities I do not know if I would have gotten anywhere else. After I graduate, hopefully, I can start my career at a help desk providing my customers with relief through troubleshooting and solving their problems. My end goal is to be a software engineer for a company that impacts the masses.

Before NPower I wanted to be a veterinarian. I loved animals and I still do, But I learned that I love IT more. What led me down the path of tech was the program in high school that taught coding. Why NPower? Why not, NPower is what I needed at the time. And NPower has become like a family to me, and it is a family that I intend to keep close. My favorite moment was the mock interviews. Watching my classmates mingle was a real treat. PD has helped me so much. It improved my confidence, and it has certainly prepared me for going out and finding work. In the perfect world, I would love to be an expert in IT with all the knowledge, all the connections, and all trade secrets.

Tyriqe Thomas 23, Baltimore, MD

Zakiah Toliver 19, Washington, DC

When I was younger, I wanted to be a chemical engineer and learn how to make medicine for illnesses that couldn’t be cured. I choose NPower for its excellent professional development and the opportunity for me to work on my networking skills. With the abilities I have obtained, I feel confident knowing that I will be able to take on whatever the corporate world has to offer. In a perfect world, my future after NPower will be making designs for multiple social media companies.

Thomas Tran 20, Baltimore, MD

Before NPower I aspired to be in the field of cybersecurity. The reason behind my interest is that it offers tools and knowledge that are highly valuable and will remain important in the future. Fortunately, NPower has helped me kick-start my career in technology despite having no formal job or experience in it. Being a part of NPower feels like being a part of another family where everyone motivates and supports each other, even in low times. Throughout the program, you can also work on other traits, like my weakness in public speaking. Once I complete the program, I am determined to secure a job in the technology industry.

Before NPower I felt like I was at a standstill in my life. I was unhappy with my current job, and I felt like it was too late to do anything else, like switch careers or learn a new skill, all while still making money to support myself. Growing up, I had a one-track mind, a paramedic is what I wanted to be, and I had no clue how to do it. Before I knew it, adulthood set in, and I was too comfortable for my liking where I was. Making just enough to support myself at a job I hate. I wanted a skill. I knew going to school full time as a 24-year-old working full time to support herself would be close to impossible. I have countless friends in the IT field, and I knew the money was there, I knew my interest was there and I knew my willingness to learn was there. I just needed the platform. NPower was recommended by one of my friends who did not complete the program herself. That did not discourage me, I did my research, and I loved the message NPower was sending. I loved the flexibility, and the program outline was perfect for me, so I took my chance and applied. With very little technical knowledge, I knew I wanted to make a good impression in that interview, and I gave it all the personality I had. NPower training was great, it was tuition-free, outside of my working hours, and the instructors were super supportive the whole way through. I learned a lot about myself, here I sparked my interest in web and software design.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to play video games or create the graphics of the game myself. I’ve been drawing since I could get my hands on a crayon, and over the years, my art style has changed and greatly improved. Yes, IT isn’t traditionally the way artists usually prefer to go, but IT is continuing to grow and make changes in society, I was introduced to NPower through Mr. Demetrius and heard all the opportunities they provide. So, I took my chance to expand my knowledge in IT to take a great step toward the future I want for myself. Initially, I looked at NPower as just school, but now, I actually feel connected to my classmates and instructors. I did not think I would willingly want to stay connected, but now they will not be able to get rid of me.

Corrine Vanzego 24, Capitol Heights, MD

Ariana Warner 19, Baltimore, MD

What led me to the path of tech currently was being introduced to this wonderful program and it just so happened that along the way, I found out that the job field is so broad.

NPower means the world to me now and within such a short time frame, everyone involved has become my family. My favorite moment during the program was when we were able to pour into the instructors letting them know how amazing they are, especially when they are always pouring into us. I benefited from the program in so many different aspects—learning IT with no background in it, being so motivated by everyone, and being able to share what I learn with others.

After NPower it would look like continuing to be involved in events and classes regarding the program and leveling up my certifications.

I would tell my younger self to not ever stop loving and never stop being yourself. To know that everything that’s meant for me will fall into place. So, enjoy the journey.

I have always found myself helping others and enjoying the rush I received from finding the right resources, so much so that my first job was as an optician, the liaison to the optometrist. They create a sense of comfort between the patient & physician. Since then, I found myself taking medical roles that I saw fit my skill set. I am 25 now and want to continue to grow my love for being that man-in-the-middle with a technical approach, and as we know, medicine and technology intertwine vastly in an objective to create easier processes for patients and professionals and through innovation with a human touch, with NPower, I will succeed!

Kenisha Warren 26, Baltimore, MD

Blake Washington 25, Baltimore, MD

Disha Watson

25, Baltimore, MD

NPower has been a great and positive force in my life. I have not only met so many wonderful people, but I have also learned so much about technology that I would not have known without being here. Before NPower I had no idea how I would get into tech, but I knew it was something that I wanted to pursue. I reached out to a friend who was pursuing a career in tech, and she told me to give NPower a try. Now after completing the program and learning the fundamentals of Tech, I have grasped a better understanding of the foundation of technology. I have even figured out what direction I will travel next. NPower has provided me with some of the foundational skills necessary to become a software engineer. My younger self would be proud, and if I could go back in time and tell myself one thing, it would be to “keep pushing forward. Everyone is just as nervous as you. You are doing a great job!”

Robin Elliot Williams

52, White Plains, MD

U.S Navy Employment in military: CE2

The ability to become financially secure without the physical labor of a blue-collar job is a dream of mine. I’ve always wanted an office job. NPower was a great opportunity to get some experience and get a certification and the job placement help was very attractive.

This opportunity gave me a sense of belonging to an organization that is striving to help others succeed and giving back to the community for less fortunate people warms my heart. Learning operating systems and how to give access or limit access is one of my greatest accomplishments. The knowledge of understanding networks and languages is so fascinating to me, and I’ve always thought of people who can do those things as being super intelligent. Now that is me.

The professional development team has been the most important factor in my finishing this program. Chrishelle Petty and James Sheets are the reasons I’ve made it this far. I had so much support, encouragement, and assistance from those two, and it was at some very tough times in my journey. Life got difficult for me mentally, spiritually, and emotionally, but I stepped out on faith with their encouragement and support. I can’t thank them enough in words.

After NPower I plan on securing a position as a business analyst to start, and then I may branch out to become a scrum master or once I see the hands-on in cyber security, networking and cloud management, then I can map out how to proceed in the IT field.

Trinity Williams 19, Capitol Heights, MD

When I was growing up, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to be, I just knew that I wanted to be my own boss. I knew that I was worth more than what the typical 9-5 offered. I wanted to not only have financial freedom but social freedom as well. Later I found that a career in tech could help me achieve this.

NPower opened doors that I thought could only open with a degree and loads of money. They have helped me gain not only the technical skills I need in my career but also the professional skills. NPower’s hands-on, intensive training has allowed me to see that the things I’ve always wanted in life are possible with hard work and true, genuine guidance.

After NPower I am headed towards an entry-level position that will help me grow in the field. I am looking forward to starting my own business and plan to use everything I have learned thus far to help me succeed. When I’m on top, I’ll never forget to look down on my journey and thank NPower. Thank you, NPower, for helping me become the boss that I knew I would always be.

Hnnin Yee 25, Rosedale, MD

My time at NPower is a fantastic opportunity to land into a technical field that guided me to develop self-growth and career advancement. Even though I have a bachelor’s degree in computer science outside of the United States, it is hard to find job connections for me as an immigrant. NPower helped groom me into a business professional and provided me with the resources that I need to enter the tech field. I am grateful for Mr. Lloyd, James, Diamond, Larry, and all of the staff that helped me to improve in professional business settings and technical fields. After graduation, I plan to continue to pursue NPower’s advanced training.

Congratulations

Spring 2023 Tech Fundamentals

Aaron Jordan

Allek Demetrius

Aniya Smith

Ariana Warner

Ayomide Akano

Barbara Horne

Blake Morris

Blake Washington

Blessn Lewis

Brion Peoples

Catherine Block

Christelle Noudjou

Corinne Vanzego

Dagmawi Admassu

Daniel Holland

Daquan Gibson

Dawit Mengistie

Delores Taylor

Demond Chesson

Disha Winston

Donovan Porter

Donyea Braxton

Dyanni Lewis

Eric Ampong Coker

Eric Irving

Franck Solefack

Hikmatullah Bahramee

Hninn Yee

Jackson (DJ) Young

Jaidyn Loney

Jalen Edmondson

Jawan Taylor

John Green

Jonathan Catchings

Kaden Crandell

Keith Powers

Kenisha Warren

Kennedy Simmons

Kevin Fermaint

Korin Outlaw

Kristian Lancaster

Kyle Grannum

Massa Kanneh

Mia Pomranky

Miranda Bolden

Monique Scott

Nia Evans

Nia Hawkins

Patrick O McMahon

Paul Mcdonald

Qorohn Mooring

Qudratullah Bahramee

Reginald Santiago

Robin Elliott-Williams

View Highlights: npower.org/graduation/spring-2023/maryland/

Sade Beverley

Sean Neal

Simone Patrick

Thomas Rawlings III

Thomas Tran

Trabian Williams

Trinity Williams

Tyriqe Thomas

Xiiya Dey

Zakiah Toliver

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.

80% Of students who enroll graduate Of alumni get jobs or continue their education

(Based on NPower’s national data)

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 skill. 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 6,000 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.

TO OUR EMPLOYMENT AND COMMUNITY PARTNERS, SPONSORS, FUNDERS, VOLUNTEERS

Employer Partners

Chris Abell, Carrol Tech Council

Ed Mullin, Baltimore Robotics Center

Edward McBryde, Astrazeneca

Jay Steinmetz, Barcoding

Rodney Walker, MoEd

Volunteers

Briana Pennington

Calvin Greenway

Charmange Gomes

Clara Pitt

Craig Addison

Curtis Kinsler

Dae Griffin Gomes

Dashawn Brownley

Davon Mason

Ebony Gladney

Frank Baitman

Gayle Guilford

Greg DiDio

Isabella Gravina

Jason Long

Karla Medina

Maurice Marshall

Mikenzhie Smith

Moja Williams

Monique Taylor

Nathan Iverson

Olivia Johnson

Rasheena McConneaughey

Rob Whiteside

Romel Freeman

Suniyah Peters

Funders

Appeton

Baltimore City Mayor’s Office of Employment Development

Baltimore Woman’s Giving Circle

Bank of America

Beth and Ravenel Curry Foundation

CareFirst Blue Cross BlueShield

Citi

Coppin State University

Earn Maryland

Fund II Foundation

Google

Greenspring Advisors

Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation

Kaiser Permanente

Lockheed Martin Corporation

MD DHCD Block Grant

MD DHCD Operating Assistance

MD State - Train Up

MetLife

National BasketBall Association

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Ronald & Cynthia Gula Charitable Fund

S&P Global

SIM Capital Area Chapter (SIMCAC)

Southwest Partnership Workforce Development Action Fund

The Blaustein Philanthropic Group

The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation

Truist Financial

U.S Department of Homeland Security

West Baltimore Renaissance Foundation

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

CHAMPION

Christiane Costello

Paul Daugherty

Dean Del Vecchio

Matt Horner

Jennifer Kleinert

Brian McCarthy

Mark Patterson

David Reilly

Ron Robbins

PARTNER

Craig Cuffie

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

Jessica Berry

Stefanie Boles

Marletta Boyd II

Marletta Boyd Senior

David Boyle

Michael Bridges

Dale Brooks

Stephanie Byrd

Kristie Carney

Lisa Cawley

Gerald Charles, Jr.

Benjamin Cole

Hannah Craven

Quincy Davis

Carl De Groote

Richard DePalma

Damon Downing

Mike Elmore

Brett Fleischman

Sally Frank

Michael Fugett

Rami Gabriel

Kimika Garrett

Daniel Garrison

Amy Gnagy

Demetrius Goodwin

Michael Gregoire

Mark Heil

Rhonda Henley

Matt Holton

Cindy Hoots

The Hoyle Family

Jason Huebner

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 Schwarz

Gaurav Shah

William Shea

Dwight Shepherd

Randy Siedl

James Smith

David Sullivan

Nicole Tate

Coriel Taylor

Horace Tiggs IV

Zachary Vendeiro

Harish Venkitaramanan

Scott Wilton

Judy Winter-Giella

FRIEND

Einat Burshtine

Alexandra Gerdner

Benjamin Hyman

Ann Marr

Susanne Tedrick

Jose Vilar

Stefen Welch

Bruce Williams

National NPower Supporters

Underwriters $750K

Sponsors $250-$749K

Partners $100-$249K

AHEAD

Akamai Technologies

Andreessen Horowitz Cultural Leadership Fund

Ascension Health

Atlas Data Systems

BAE Systems

Beth & Ravenel Curry Foundation

Bloomberg Philanthropies

Centene Charitable Foundation

Corteva Agriscience

Check Point Software Technologies, LTD

Craig Newmark Fund

Dennis M Jones Family Foundation

Ernst & Young

Fiserv Inc.

General Motors

Globant

Hearst Foundation

Hewlett Packard Company

Infinidat

Ira W. De Camp Foundation

John & Marcia Goldman Foundation

Kaiser Permanente

KPMG

Light a Single Candle Foundation, NFP

LinkedIn Corporation

Maryland - AIF

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development

Mass Mutual Life Insurance Company

MTX Group Inc

NetApp

New Jersey Department of Labor

New York City

The New York Community Trust

New York State

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Norton LifeLock

Palo Alto Networks

Patrick J McGovern Foundation

Regional Business Council

State of Maryland

Tata Consultancy Services

The St. Louis Community Foundation

Twilio Inc.

United Way of Greater St. Louis

United Way of St. Louis

Workday Foundation

Supporters $50-$99K

The Achelis & Bodman Foundation

Arista Networks, Inc.

Armis Inc.

Ascension Information Services

Auth0 Inc.

Bader Family Foundation

Benevity Fund

Broadcom Inc

Capital One Financial Corp.

Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation

Cohesity

Communities Foundation of Texas

Community Foundation of Southeast Michigan

Consumers Energy

Data Dynamics, Inc

David Reilly

Emerson

Flextronics International USA, Inc.

Fortinet, Inc.

Henry & Ruth Blaustein Rosenberg Foundation

Hitachi

IBM

ING Financial Markets LLC

Intel Corporation

Kirkland & Ellis

Koret Foundation

L'Oreal Groupe

Medidata Solutions Inc

Merck & Co., Inc

Morgan Stanley

MUFG Union Bank

NetApp Inc.

New York City Council

OneTen

Oracle

Peter Trizzino

Rainwater Charitable Foundation

Royal Bank of Canada

Rubrik

S&P Global Inc.

Shippy Foundation

Society for information Management

SS&C Technologies, Inc.

Tanium Inc.

Texas Mutual Insurance Company

The Rockefeller Foundation

The Saigh Foundation

The William R. Orthwein, Jr. Foundation, Inc.

Thomas Kurian

United States Department of Homeland Security

United Way of Tarrant County

VMware Inc.

Vodaphone

Wells Fargo Bank

Wilson Sheehan Foundation

Wipro Technologies

Zendesk

Zoom