The session will introduce attendees to Apprenti PGH, which is modeled on a program first launched in Seattle by the Washington Technology Industry Association. Today, the company operates in 16 states and is in development in four others, including Pennsylvania.
"Apprenti PGH is a unique apprenticeship program that puts apprentices on a straightforward, step-by-step training toward well-paying jobs in the Pittsburgh region's technology sector," said Audrey Russo, president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Technology Council and FortyX80. "We're looking forward to talking to candidates from Monessen and from all across Westmoreland County."
The session will allow participants to learn more about the region's growing technology industry and employers who are part of the program. It will also offer advice on preparing to apply to Apprenti PGH.
The program is open to everyone, but Russo said apprenticeships are often highly effective at engaging more participation from underrepresented groups, including: minorities, women, people of color, veterans, displaced and disabled workers.
"At FortyX80, in partnership with Pittsburgh Technology Council, we realized that we need to do more than simply move talent around in our city from employer to employer," Russo said. "We need to invest in the process of both attracting and creating the future pipeline of talent."
As the founder and CEO of tech company SHzoom, which helps companies manage vehicle fleets and track repairs, Monessen native Ingrid Cook said she is delighted to see information about Apprenti PGH coming to her hometown.
"I've witnessed firsthand the lack of representation in our sector," she said. "For those of us who remain committed to closing the racial and gender wealth gap, the time to act is now."
State Sen. Pat Stefano, R- Dunbar, said the information session offers an "incredible opportunity."
"At a time when so many people are still trying to make ends meet following the governor's business closures, this is a great way to start a new career without any associated costs," Stefano said.
The session is set for 1-3 p.m., Friday at the Monessen Public Library, 326 Donner Ave. in Monessen. Register online at EventBrite.com by typing "Apprenti PGH" into the search box at the top of the page.
© 2021 The Tribune-Review (Greensburg, Pa.). Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
