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National Advanced Training Programs Graduation

National Advanced Training Graduation Ceremony Recap 

On August 25, 2021, NPower held its first-ever national celebration for graduates of the Advanced Training Programs.

Between 2019 and 2021, over 350 students, many alumni of the Tech Fundamentals Program, went beyond the basics of IT to master either Cloud Computing or Cybersecurity in just a matter of months. Determined to advance their careers, the trainees tackled rigorous education in pursuit of industry-recognized certifications and greater opportunities in an ever-changing technological landscape.

The event kicked off with a welcome address from NPower’s Advanced Training Director, Nelson Abbott, followed by an inspiring and heartfelt keynote speech from Jessica Cowle, Talent Acquisition Specialist at Logicworks, who reinforced the professional competitive edge the graduates possessed by completing the program. Graduates David Mendez (Cloud Computing, Spring 2021) and current Senior L3 Cloud Technician at Oakhill Investments and Jena Mae Nacar-Batong (Cybersecurity, Spring 2021) and current Data Security Admin and Operator at Ocean Spray Cranberries shared the personal and professional challenges they faced on their career journeys and how NPower equipped them for success.

With local pandemic-related restrictions in place, the virtual ceremony offered the graduates from the past 7 cohorts an opportunity to not only celebrate their achievement, but also re-connect with their fellow classmates and NPower staff, near and far. Over 40 attendees joined the event’s livestream, including family members tuning in all the way from the Philippines. Congratulatory messages and well-wishes brought the event to a close.

WATCH THE CELEBRATION

Celebrate this day of advocacy and awareness-raising to elevate Women of Color in Tech and support them in pursuing and sustaining careers in tech.