In our inaugural Stride for Hope 5K & Homecoming Festival, we’re running in support of adult learners who are working to change their lives and transform themselves and their communities by offering education and career training that creates direct pathways to economic mobility.
Due to the rapid growth of technology and the increased need for network and data security, all sectors of the workforce demand individuals with IT and computer skills. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states, “overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2024 to 2034.” Three out of 10 of the district’s top in-demand careers included IT and computer occupations, with all three earning an annual median wage of over $100,000.
Academy of Hope (AoH) prepares adults in Washington, D.C., for this surge of opportunity by offering FREE IT programs with stackable CompTIA credentials. While the pathway is designed for learners to progress from CompTIA Tech+ (beginner) to CompTIA Security+ (advanced), program entry and exit points are flexible to meet the needs of individuals.
Take alum Brandon P. Brandon began at AoH as a National External Diploma Program (NEDP) learner and earned his high school diploma. Previously homeless and unemployed, Brandon was motivated to utilize his education to continue his learning and find a stable career. Knowing IT was an in-demand field, he enrolled in AoH’s CompTIA Tech+ program, where he learned the basics of the industry.
However, someone with previous experience, like alum Brady R., was able to begin his journey in CompTIA A+. Years ago, Brady served as a Cryptologic Technician for the United States Navy, intercepting and collecting signals for strategic intelligence. After his service, he’d work other jobs, but always dreamed of returning to IT and computer technology.
His first step would be to get CompTIA certified. Due to his prior knowledge, Brady was able to test out of Tech+ and begin in CompTIA A+, focusing on hardware, cloud computing, networking technology, operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures.
Now, Brady is A+ and Security+ certified, and joins AoH’s first cohort of paid IT apprentices at Accenture, where he is an Intelligence Analyst.
Accenture offered 21 of its 40 highly competitive apprenticeship positions to AoH CompTIA learners— an unmistakable testament to the exceptional quality of our education and our learners’ unwavering commitment to transforming their careers.
By participating in our Stride for Hope 5K & Homecoming Festival, you directly invest in adult learners like Brandon and Brady, empowering them to continue creating meaningful change for themselves, their families, and their communities through workforce development.
Interested in making a difference? Register today.