Nonprofit Launches Program To Protect And Restore Black Technologists’ Jobs
Blacks United in Leading Technology (BUiLT), a nonprofit committed to increasing Black representation in tech, has launched an initiative to protect and restore jobs for Black professionals in the industry.
The move comes as a direct response to widespread layoffs that have disproportionately impacted Black technologists, with over 240,000 jobs lost across the sector in 2023 alone.
The BUiLT REIT Program: A Lifeline for Black Technologists
The BUiLT REIT (Retaining Employability In Tech) program, backed by a Google commercialization grant awarded in March 2024, aims to equip Black professionals with the skills needed to secure and maintain their positions in the tech industry.
Participants undergo an intensive 90-day curriculum that includes tech training, soft skills development, and mentoring.
Upon completion, graduates continue to receive annual training, testing, and certification, ensuring they remain competitive throughout their careers.
“We’re committed to ensuring that the progress we’ve made is not lost and invite others to join us in this vital effort,”BUiLT Executive Director Peter Beasley stated.
Strategic Employer Partnerships Foster a Continuous Talent Pipeline
A key component of the REIT program is its collaboration with leading companies like American Airlines, which have joined as employer partners.
These companies gain priority access to a pool of certified Black technologists with cutting-edge skills, facilitating a continuous talent pipeline that benefits both the employers and program graduates.
This strategic partnership not only supports Black technologists but also enhances companies’ diversity and inclusion efforts by connecting them with top talent.
A Collaborative Approach to Strengthening Black Tech Employment
In addition to partnerships with employers, BUiLT is reaching out to aligned nonprofits, encouraging them to link their programs with the REIT initiative.
This collaborative approach aims to maximize resources and improve employment outcomes for participants, further solidifying the impact of the REIT program.
Applications for the program open from September 15 to October 5, 2024, and are available at no cost to qualified BUiLT members.
Feature Image Credit: Peter Beasley / Blacks United in Leading Technology (BUiLT)
