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Transforming Lives Through Technology and CompTIA Certifications

The Latin American Youth Center (LAYC), based in Washington, DC, has served the community for over 65 years, providing education and career opportunities to low-income students aged 16 to 30. Recognizing the growing importance of technology in every industry, LAYC partnered with CompTIA to empower students with the skills and certifications needed to secure meaningful employment. This case study highlights how CompTIA has not only transformed the lives of students but also the educators who guide them.

The challenge

LAYC serves a population of students who face significant challenges:

  1. Economic barriers: Many students come from low-income families and lack access to resources to help them build careers.
  2. Job market competitiveness: Students need industry-recognized certifications to differentiate themselves and secure employment in a technology-driven world.
  3. Sustainability of programs: LAYC continually faces funding challenges, making finding affordable and effective training solutions essential.

The challenge was to provide students with accessible, high-quality training and certifications that would enable them to support themselves and their families.

The solution

Through its partnership with CompTIA, LAYC has been able to address these challenges by:

  • Providing certifications: CompTIA certifications, such as Tech+ and A+, serve as key differentiators for students entering the job market. These certifications validate their skills and open doors to career opportunities.
  • Affordable resources: CompTIA offers affordable pricing and high-quality materials, making it possible for LAYC to provide training to students despite funding limitations.
  • Building career pathways: Students are encouraged to pursue additional certifications, creating a pathway for continuous learning and career growth.
  • Creating a legacy: The program has come full circle, with former students now working in LAYC’s IT department and serving as role models for current participants.

The results

The partnership with CompTIA has had a transformative impact on both students and the organization:

  • Student success: Many students have used their certifications to secure jobs, support their families, and continue their education.
  • Generational impact: A former student who attended classes as a child is now a co-worker in LAYC’s IT department, showcasing the long-term impact of the program.
  • Sustainable growth: The IT department at LAYC is now entirely staffed by former students, demonstrating the program’s success in creating a skilled workforce.
  • Educator empowerment: CompTIA has also transformed the life of the program’s educator, who leveraged CompTIA resources to gain certifications and share valuable skills with students.

The Latin American Youth Center’s partnership with CompTIA demonstrates the power of certifications in transforming lives. By providing affordable, high-quality training and resources, CompTIA has enabled LAYC to create a sustainable program that empowers students to achieve their career goals. The program’s success highlights the importance of technology education in breaking the cycle of poverty and building a brighter future for underserved communities.