Although Andrew Holland was determined and self-taught in IT, he struggled to break into the tech sector and sought the training he needed to advance his career prospects. However, without the resources to pursue a traditional degree, he looked for alternative paths to tech that eventually led nowhere.
“I was working the front desk at a downtown Brooklyn hotel for a while before I worked up the nerve to ask for an entry level job in the hotel’s IT department,” said Andrew. “When I was turned down, I got a retail job at PC Richard & Son. I figured it would provide some hands-on tech experience and develop the kind of soft skills I had read that are important in a corporate IT setting. In addition to that, I was trying to find programs and online resources to enhance my abilities.”
The problem seemed daunting: how does an underemployed person with limited opportunity and finances realize tremendous potential in a field that requires top-tier training?
NPower creates pathways to economic prosperity by launching digital careers for military-connected adults and young adults from low-income communities. It provides tuition-free training that produces graduates with top industry certifications.
NPower is notable for its nimble curriculum development, integrating cutting-edge topics like artificial intelligence (AI) based on employer feedback. The programs are enriched with industry certifications, mentorship, professional development, and social support, preparing students not just technically but also professionally for career success.
Starting from a single classroom in New York City, NPower now operates in 14 locations across nine states and offers five major programs, including specialized tracks for transitioning military personnel and providing virtual learning options. The organization has grown to more than 12,000 graduates nationwide in less than 25 years.
NPower’s achievements start with leadership as determined to succeed as its student body. Its staff carefully monitors and measures metrics to tweak curriculum and uncover constant enhancement opportunities. The results are astounding: an 80 percent graduation rate, 81 percent employment or continued education rate, and a 300+ percent average salary increase.
Beyond the data is the virtuous cycle it creates in the communities it serves.
“We often bring trainees from low-to- moderate income into the middle class with family-sustaining jobs,” said Helen Kogan, Executive Director of New York and New Jersey (Metro) regions at NPower. “On the corporate side, we are a much-needed supplier of qualified, early career talent. In the community, our graduates buy homes, start families, and contribute to the strengthening of the local economy. Which, in turn, creates more jobs and opportunity.”
Originally, NPower provided tech support to nonprofits and schools before shifting its focus to workforce training. Its mission is deeply rooted in serving under-resourced communities, providing life-changing opportunities that help individuals transition from low-income backgrounds to stable, middle-class careers. NPower’s philosophy emphasizes inclusion, meeting learners where they are and offering beginner, intermediary, and advanced programs, such as cybersecurity and their new Networking Systems Administration (NetSA) program.
This program prepares learners to manage and optimize the devices, systems, and connections that keep organizations running. Participants gain firsthand experience organizing data, strengthening security controls, and ensuring reliable access to information and applications – the essential, high-demand skills needed to keep our digital world connected and secure.
Looking ahead, NPower aims to scale its NetSA program nationally, integrate more digital tools, and develop assessments to better match students with suitable programs.
“Our ultimate vision is to train 15,000 students annually by 2030,” said Helen. “What sets NPower apart is our commitment to real-world experience. Students don’t just earn certifications; they gain the mentorship, mindset, and career preparation to succeed long-term.”
The organization addresses barriers to employment, such as industry experience requirements and offshoring trends, by fostering strong relationships with corporate partners and creating a pipeline for internships and apprenticeships. NPower is a leading proponent of tech apprenticeships in New York, helping bridge the gap between training and employment.
Andrew, who graduated in the Tech Fundamentals Class of 2015 and Cloud Class of 2020, is now an IT Help Desk Manager for Bain Capital, a leading private investment firm based in Boston. Approaching seven years at Bain, Andrew has been promoted every two years and now manages IT operations for five offices. His role has even taken him across the globe, including London, where he’s helped train international teams.
Mizuho awarded NPower New York a three-year $450,000 grant to support the launch and development of the Path2Tech:NetSA, building a stronger, more inclusive tech talent pipeline for New York City.
For more information about NPower, please contact Helen Kogan, Executive Director of New York and New Jersey (Metro) regions, at Helen.Kogan@npower.org.
