Celebrating Volunteer Month and Honoring Command Shift Coalition Action Leaders

As Volunteer Month draws to a close, it's essential to spotlight the champions of the Command Shift movement—the dedicated members of the Command Shift Coalition. These individuals are the architects of change, embodying a spirit of service that is reshaping the tech industry.

The work of the Command Shift Coalition would not have been possible without the support of our members and volunteers, who've played a pivotal role in shaping and growing Command Shift from an idea to a movement. They are not just volunteers but action leaders, developing strategies to create a seismic shift in the tech industry for women, especially those from under-resourced communities.

Their commitment to creating our foundational research, The Equation for Equality, developing our employer toolkit, The Diversity Directive, and launching our newest Program, Path2TECH, is truly inspiring. Through their dedication and hard work, we are developing strategies and creating tangible opportunities for women in tech and paving the way for a stronger, more inclusive future.

Thank you to all Command Shift Coalition members for your tireless efforts and dedication to our shared mission. Together, we can build a brighter and more equitable future in tech for all.

NPower Alumni Spotlight

Erika Lopez-Vasquez

NPower California

Tech Fundamentals Fall 2023

Systems Administrator II, Legacy Transportation Service

Erika's journey to a career in the tech industry was far from conventional. Struggling with uncertainty and frustration, she lived with her parents and felt disconnected from her professional aspirations despite her service in the Army Reserves. Even though she bounced between temporary jobs in search of her true potential, Erika's eagerness to make a meaningful impact never waned.

Discovering NPower offered Erika a chance to turn her aspirations into reality. Though initially challenged by the course material, her determination and resilience propelled her forward. Erika emerged as a leader among her peers, spearheading study groups to foster shared knowledge and accountability.

Just weeks after graduating from NPower, Erika's perseverance bore fruit. In January 2024, she secured a position at Legacy Transportation Service as a Systems Administrator II. For Erika, NPower became the catalyst she needed to kickstart her career and set her on the path to success.

Erika’s story embodies the transformative impact of NPower's programs, demonstrating how dedication and support can empower individuals to achieve their dreams in the ever-evolving tech industry.

“I am grateful to NPower and its dedicated staff for helping me believe in my ability to attain my long-term goal: becoming a Network Engineer”

NPower is a Finalist for the 2024 Halo Awards!

We're thrilled to share that NPower has been selected as a finalist for the 2024 Halo Awards in the esteemed Best Gender Equality/Equity Initiative category! This recognition honors our dedication to Closing the STEM Gender Gap and underscores our ongoing commitment to gender equality. It reinforces our mission to drive positive change in our communities.

Being recognized alongside industry leaders such as Humble Bundle and Girls Who Code is truly an honor. We extend our gratitude to our supportive community, whose unwavering encouragement has fueled our efforts.

Let's continue our collaborative journey towards creating meaningful impact and fostering a more inclusive tech industry together. Explore all the finalists here and join us in celebrating this exciting milestone!

Women Tech Network Conference 2024

Last week, I was honored to present at the Women Tech Network Conference. During my session, I shared insights on how NPower is fostering a more inclusive tech industry through our work with the Command Shift Coalition. 

My presentation, "How to Hire, Retain, Support, and Promote the Next Generation of Diverse Tech Workers," highlighted the coalition's impactful work and emphasized the significance of skills-based hiring strategies in building robust and inclusive tech talent pipelines.

I was also thrilled to share how the Command Shift Coalition continues to empower women, especially those from under-resourced communities, by collaborating with corporate, nonprofit, and community leaders. Together, we're sharing invaluable resources, strategies, and action steps to ensure everyone has a seat at the tech table.

Thanks to all who attended my session, and a special thank you to the WomenTech Network for providing a platform to amplify crucial conversations for women in tech.