In an ever-evolving global economy, access to education, professional development, and career opportunities has become a critical factor in determining long-term success. While many young people in the United States have access to pathways that lead to stable careers and economic independence, millions of others are trapped in a cycle of poverty due to systemic barriers that prevent them from accessing higher education and skilled job opportunities.
This growing gap between those who have access to opportunity and those who do not has come to be known as the “opportunity divide.” Closing this gap is essential not only for the individuals affected but also for society at large, as businesses increasingly struggle to fill skilled positions. One organization that has been instrumental in addressing this divide is Year Up, a national nonprofit that has helped thousands of young gain the skills, experience, and support they need to launch successful careers.
What is Year Up?
Founded in 2000 by social entrepreneur Gerald Chertavian, Year Up is dedicated to empowering low-income young , aged 18-26, who are disconnected from traditional educational or career pathways. Year Up’s mission is simple yet profound: to close the opportunity divide by providing participants with marketable skills, work experience, and the professional networks they need to thrive in high-demand industries.
Operating in more than 25 cities across the United States, Year Up has built partnerships with hundreds of major corporations, including Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Facebook, and Google, offering young a unique pathway to gainful employment in fields such as technology, finance, business operations, and customer service.
At the heart of Year Up’s approach is the belief that “talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not.” The program is designed to equip talented young people who may otherwise be overlooked with the skills and confidence they need to enter and excel in the modern workforce.
The Year Up Program Structure
Year Up’s one-year program is divided into two primary phases: classroom-based skills training and a corporate internship. The structure is carefully designed to balance technical education with practical experience, ensuring that graduates are not only job-ready but also prepared to thrive in a professional environment.
1. Skills Development (First Six Months)
During the first six months, participants engage in intensive classroom instruction focused on both technical and soft skills. The curriculum is tailored to the needs of the modern economy, with courses covering fields such as:
- Information Technology (IT): This includes training in areas like IT support, helpdesk services, hardware and software troubleshooting, and basic networking. With the increasing demand for IT professionals, students gain critical skills that make them highly competitive in the job market.
- Cybersecurity: With the rise of cyber threats, cybersecurity has become one of the most in-demand fields globally. Year Up offers training in cybersecurity principles, network security, and risk management, preparing participants for careers in this fast-growing field.
- Data Analytics: Data is the new currency of business, and the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data is a valuable skill set. Year Up participants learn the fundamentals of data analytics, using tools such as Excel, SQL, and Tableau to make data-driven decisions.
- Finance and Business Operations: Students interested in the finance sector receive training in financial analysis, accounting principles, and project management, opening doors to careers in banking, finance, and consulting.
In addition to these technical skills, Year Up places a strong emphasis on soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. These are essential competencies that employers look for in candidates, regardless of the industry.
2. Corporate Internship (Second Six Months)
Following the classroom phase, participants transition into the second half of the program, which involves a six-month corporate internship. These internships are hosted by Year Up’s corporate partners, giving students real-world experience in professional settings. Internships are critical to the success of the program, as they allow students to apply the skills they’ve learned in a practical context and demonstrate their abilities to potential employers.
Internships are often the launching pad for full-time employment, as many corporate partners hire Year Up graduates into permanent positions after the internship. The combination of hands-on work experience and access to professional networks gives students a significant advantage in securing long-term employment.
A Commitment to Professional Development
Year Up’s focus goes beyond technical training. One of the key aspects of the program is its commitment to holistic professional development. Participants are paired with mentors who guide them through the program, helping them develop the confidence and professional demeanor required to succeed in corporate environments.
The program also instills a strong sense of accountability and professionalism. Year Up enforces a set of high expectations known as the “High Expectations, High Support” model. Students are expected to adhere to professional standards, including punctuality, communication, and responsibility, all of which mirror the demands of the workplace. In return, Year Up provides robust support services, including tutoring, career coaching, and personal development workshops.
This approach fosters a growth mindset, helping participants develop the resilience and determination they need to overcome challenges both during the program and throughout their careers.
The Impact of Year Up
Since its inception, Year Up has delivered impressive results. To date, the program has served over 40,000 young adults, and its impact is undeniable. Year Up’s own metrics show that 90% of graduates are employed or enrolled in further education within four months of completing the program, with average starting salaries of $44,000 per year—significantly higher than the average for young in similar circumstances.
Beyond the numbers, Year Up has changed the lives of its participants. Graduates often describe the program as transformative, providing not only career opportunities but also personal growth, self-confidence, and a sense of purpose. Many alumni now work for leading companies in fields that offer long-term career growth, financial stability, and opportunities for advancement.
Moreover, Year Up has contributed to the broader economy by addressing the skills gap that many companies face. By equipping young with the skills needed in high-demand industries, Year Up helps businesses fill critical roles with capable, diverse talent. In a world where diversity and inclusion are increasingly important, Year Up helps create a pipeline of talent from underrepresented communities.
Addressing Systemic Inequality
At its core, Year Up is a response to the deep-seated structural inequalities that have long existed in the U.S. education and employment systems. Many young adults, particularly those from low-income and minority backgrounds, face significant barriers to accessing quality education and high-paying jobs. Without the financial resources to attend college or the networks to secure internships, these individuals are often left behind in an economy that increasingly rewards skills and experience.
By providing a direct pathway to economic opportunity, Year Up helps to level the playing field. The program’s participants are primarily people of color, and many come from families living below the poverty line. Year Up not only offers these young a chance at a brighter future but also challenges the notion that potential is limited by one’s socioeconomic background.
Corporate Partnerships: A Win-Win for Business and Society
Year Up’s success is closely tied to its partnerships with hundreds of major corporations. These partnerships are mutually beneficial: businesses gain access to a pipeline of talented, motivated workers who are ready to contribute to their organizations, while Year Up participants gain invaluable work experience and networking opportunities.
Many companies have recognized the value of Year Up’s model, particularly in addressing their own diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) goals. By hiring Year Up graduates, companies not only fill critical job roles but also bring diverse perspectives into their workforce. This diversity is increasingly seen as a key driver of innovation and success in the business world.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Year Up
As Year Up continues to grow, its impact on young and the broader economy will likely expand. The organization is actively exploring ways to scale its model, including developing partnerships with more companies and educational institutions. Year Up is also leveraging technology to offer virtual learning and remote internships, making its program accessible to a broader audience.
The ultimate goal is to ensure that every young adult in the United States has access to the opportunities they need to reach their full potential. In doing so, Year Up is not only transforming individual lives but also working toward a more equitable and inclusive society.
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Conclusion
Year Up is a beacon of hope for young who face barriers to education and employment. Through its innovative approach to skills development, corporate internships, and professional support, Year Up has successfully closed the opportunity divide for thousands of young people. By continuing to expand its reach and deepen its impact, Year Up has the potential to drive lasting change in the way society views talent, education, and opportunity. In the years to come, Year Up’s work will remain crucial in ensuring that all young adults, regardless of their background, have the chance to succeed in an increasingly competitive and skills-driven world.