In the quest for a diverse and talented workforce, employers in the technology industry often seek to connect with young professionals from underrepresented backgrounds.
This blog post highlights four exceptional organizations that Seer Interactive has worked with, —1Philadelphia, Hopeworks, UTP Philly, and Per Scholas—that serve as invaluable resources for employers looking to discover diverse tech talent, both in Philadelphia and across the country.
1Philadelphia
A city wide Initiative that implements a tech education system with the support of community–based organizations, place–based funders, and the greater community.
Employers looking to engage with 1Philadelphia can contact them directly here.
1Philadelphia is a coalition of stakeholders working to make Philly the capital of equitable tech and innovation.
[Thanks to those who attended Innovation Weekend PHL 2022]
Hopeworks
Provides a positive, healing atmosphere that propels young people to build strong futures and break the cycle of violence and poverty in Camden, New Jersey.
Hopeworks connects youth to life-changing opportunities where their growing technology skills go to work for enterprising businesses within the Philadelphia and Camden communities.
The real-world, on-the-job experience they gain raises their potential and benefits our partners.
Employers looking to partner with Hopeworks can learn more here.
Hopeworks is a social enterprise that uses technology, healing, and entrepreneurship to transform lives.
[Hopeworks intern takes the next step of his professional career by getting accepted in a new position with American Supply Company!]
Urban Technology Project
A collaborative initiative between the School District of Philadelphia and Communities In Schools of Philadelphia, Inc., that empowers Philadelphia youth and their communities through meaningful technological experiences that link youth leadership development, education and community building.
UTP programs involve a continuum of service-learning and school-to-work experiences that provide long-term, holistic support for urban youth. Technology professionals are needed to mentor participants for the 2023-2034 academic year.
All info to participate with Urban Technology Project can be found here.
The Urban Technology Project (UTP) is a collaborative initiative between the School District of Philadelphia and Communities In Schools of Philadelphia, Inc., that empowers Philadelphia youth and their communities through meaningful technological experiences that link youth leadership development, education and community building.
[Labor Secretary Thomas Perez meets one of the Urban Technology Project's Digital Service Fellows, December 2014.]
Per Scholas
Provides skills training and access to employer networks to individuals often excluded from tech careers.
They envision a technology workforce as diverse as the customers it serves.
More than 20,000 graduates have launched successful careers in tech to date through their no-cost technical training. Their mission is to advance economic equity through rigorous training for tech careers and to connect skilled talent to leading businesses.
Employers looking to partner and hire talent can find out more here.
Per Scholas is to advance economic equity through rigorous training for tech careers and to connect skilled talent to leading businesses.
[Celebrates past Per Scholas graduates for taking the challenge and completing the 12 week training program. They have taken the first steps towards their new future in tech!]
To foster diversity and inclusion within their workforce, employers can seek out exceptional young tech talent from underrepresented backgrounds through these organizations.. By partnering, employers not only bridge the opportunity gap but also gain access to fresh perspectives and innovative thinking, driving growth and success in the tech industry. Together, we can create a more inclusive and vibrant future for all.
