Empowering Students Through Access to Tech Professionals: The Impact of Donations on Our Digital Leaders Academy
“I know first-hand the impact these types of programs have on students who are planning what they want to do after high school. For me it is important to continue to pay it forward to the new generation of digital navigators.”
-Eric Rosas, Broadcast Engineer
We understand that providing students with access to industry professionals is a crucial step toward bridging the gap between education and the workforce. That’s why we’re so grateful to have had Eric Rosas visit us as part of our Digital Leaders Academy. Eric’s talk didn’t just offer insights into the tech world; it gave our students a clear view of the many paths they can take toward building a career in tech.
One of the most valuable takeaways from Eric’s discussion was the focus on the college vs. non-college debate in today’s rapidly evolving job market. Many students often feel the pressure to choose between a traditional college education and the alternative route of self-learning through online resources and certifications. Eric provided a balanced perspective on both options, encouraging students to think critically about what aligns with their personal goals and learning styles.
Real-World Paths to Tech Careers
Eric highlighted the importance of accessible, free resources like Google Certifications and Coursera courses, which allow students to build valuable tech skills without the financial burden of a traditional degree. These platforms offer industry-recognized certifications in areas like Cybersecurity, AI, and Cloud Computing, enabling students to enter the tech field with the credentials they need to stand out to employers. In addition, Eric emphasized that, while certifications are a great entry point, earning a tech degree through college can provide students with more networking opportunities, access to internships, and even exclusive discounts on training programs.
According to recent studies, the tech industry is seeing an increasing number of Latino professionals entering the field, but there is still significant work to be done. The Hispanic/Latino workforce in tech is growing but still remains underrepresented compared to other demographics. While 8.5% of the total U.S. workforce is Latino, only about 7.4% of the tech workforce is comprised of Latino workers, with even fewer Latino women represented in the field. This makes it even more critical for programs like Digital Leaders Academy to provide the resources and connections that open doors to tech careers.
Why Donations Matter
The Digital Leaders Academy provides our students with more than just technical training—it provides them with the chance to interact with professionals like Eric Rosas, who can inspire them to pursue careers they may not have previously considered. These interactions expand their view of what’s possible, helping them to make informed decisions about their education and career paths. And, crucially, donations make all of this possible.
Donations help fund our ability to bring in guest speakers, provide access to resources like certification courses, and offer scholarships for students who may not have the means to pursue additional training on their own. These experiences and tools give our students a competitive edge in an industry where experience, networking, and skills are key to success.
The Importance of Community Support
With your support, we can continue to offer these invaluable opportunities to our students. Every donation, no matter the size, directly impacts the resources and opportunities we can provide to students at Argo Community High School. By contributing, you help us expand the reach of our Digital Leaders Academy and provide even more students with access to the resources they need to succeed in tech.
We are committed to ensuring that all students—regardless of their background—have the tools and connections necessary to thrive in the tech industry. Together, we can help cultivate a new generation of Latino leaders who are well-equipped to take on the future of tech.
Get Involved
- Financial Donation: With private donations, we can allocate funds to incentives usually excluded from the grants that fund some of our programs. Donate HERE.
- In-kind donations: Donating food, gift cards, or supplies directly contributes to the success of these programs by removing barriers that often prevent individuals from participating. It also serves as a great way to market your business while supporting a good cause—a win-win! Send us a message HERE about in-kind donations.
- Spread the Word: If you’re not able to give a monetary donation at this time, spreading the word through your network and local businesses that may be in a position to contribute is a great way to help us achieve our mission. Copy the URL in your browser and share this page with a friend or post it to social media.
Together, we can make a lasting impact. Let’s ensure that no one is left behind simply because they lack the resources to participate. Thank you for being part of this journey with us.
Stay Connected
- Join our mailing list for updates on our work in education, workforce, and community.
- Be sure to follow us on social media for more immediate updates! We’re active on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube!