Honoring Black History Month: Celebrating the Past and Embracing the Future

“Anything you don’t know is going to be hard at first, but if you stay the course, put the time and effort in, it will become seamless eventually.” — Jeanette Epps, PhD , the first Black woman astronaut to visit the International Space Station. She also worked for the CIA and Ford Motor Company, where she authored multiple patents.

As we come to the end of Black History Month, we celebrate a legacy of resilience, innovation, and triumph. February serves as a vibrant reminder of the profound impact Black Americans have had on shaping our world. Yet, the celebration doesn't end here; it extends far beyond a single month. Let's carry this spirit of recognition and appreciation throughout the year, honoring the richness and diversity of Black history in every moment.

When we consider the contributions of Black Americans, I'd be remiss not to highlight the contributions and impact Black women have made in tech. Black women are trailblazers, reshaping the landscape with their brilliance and determination. From pioneers like Ada Lovelace, whose work laid the foundation for modern computing, to Dr. Kamilah Taylor, a software engineer known for her groundbreaking work on the Zoom platform, Black women have been at the forefront of technological advancement throughout history.

As we reflect on all the achievements we celebrate during Black History Month, let's also look to the future. The work of the Command Shift Coalition exemplifies a steadfast commitment to ensuring diversity remains at the forefront of innovation and progress. Together, let's continue to uplift, empower, and amplify the voices of women in tech.

Meet Ashantee Franklin

NPower New York Tech Fundamentals Fall 2020

Quality Assurance Tester, Bank of America

In 2021, Ashantee found herself at a crossroads as the pandemic disrupted both her studies at LaGuardia Community College and her part-time job as a dog handler in New York City. In the midst of an uncertain time, she discovered NPower, a program that would change her life trajectory. With determination and resilience, Ashantee embarked on a transformative journey, earning certifications in CompTIA IT Fundamentals and Google IT Support through NPower’s Tech Fundamentals program. This experience not only equipped her with valuable skills but also reignited her passion for learning and technology.

 In April, Ashantee was selected for a full-time role as a junior developer with the Bank of America Technology Pathways Program. 

Initially, Ashantee was hesitant to enroll in the Technology Pathways Program because she felt intimidated. However, The NPower team provided the necessary support to help her succeed. She participated in mock interviews, worked with the NPower team to build her resume,  and received advice on how to market herself for technology jobs. Ashantee’s hard work, along with support from the NPower team, gave her the encouragement she needed to take the next step in her tech career at Bank of America.

Looking ahead, Ashantee is determined to continue expanding her expertise in digital accessibility, leveraging Bank of America's resources to make a meaningful impact in improving inclusion and access for impaired users. Her story serves as an inspiration to others, reminding us of the power of perseverance and the limitless possibilities that await when we embrace the unknown with courage and determination.

Support NPower’s NEW Path2TECH Program

As NPower prepares to launch Path2TECH, our inaugural software development program, inspired by the Command Shift Coalition’s foundational research, The Equation for Equality,  we are thrilled to invite you to join us in supporting the success of this groundbreaking initiative.

Path2TECH looks to pave the way for more women, especially those from under-resourced communities, to enter and excel in the tech industry.

We’re looking for the Command Shift Community to support Path2TECH in several key areas:

1. Hiring Talent: Consider hiring graduates from our Path2TECH program. By doing so, you not only tap into a diverse pool of talent but also contribute to fostering a more inclusive workforce.
2. Mentorship Opportunities: We are searching for dedicated professionals who can serve as mentors for our Path2TECH, participants. Your guidance and support can make a significant impact on their journey to success.
3. Professional Development Support: We are excited to connect with individuals or organizations willing to assist our trainees with activities such as resume writing and technical interviewing. Your expertise can empower our Path2TECH participants to navigate the job market with confidence.

If you or your company are interested in learning more about how you can support NPower's Path2TECH Program, please contact us at Path2TECH@npower.org