nformation Technology (IT) certifications and education programs provide opportunities and credibility for underprivileged Americans seeking to start a career in the IT field. Being certified and educated by a reputable institution allows anyone to stand out from the crowd and be more likely to succeed in their positions.
Having IT, certifications have several benefits to include: Assistance in getting hired. Having an IT certification or education gives underprivileged Americans an advantage when hiring managers look at their resumes; Job Retention - In a volatile economic environment, businesses are always looking for ways to cut costs. Having an IT certification or education can mean the difference between keeping a job or having a leg up to seek a new one; Promotions – Climbing the corporate ladder or into a better, higher-paying company job may be made more accessible by holding new technology skill certifications; Professional Credibility - Earning an IT certification or education provides immediate professional credibility. In addition, having earned one (or more) of these certifications or degrees demonstrates dedication and motivation to professional development.
To make IT certifications, education, and the benefits that come with them available to all underprivileged Americans, the Parker Foundation is offering an IT scholarship. Applicants must be high school graduates or current undergraduate students throughout the USA enrolled in an accredited university, junior college, trade school technology program, or an accredited IT certification course. Students will write an essay of no less than 500 words on a topic of their choosing. Income Tax statements showing the recipient, or the recipients’ parents (if younger than 21) earn less than U.S. poverty guidelines of $26,500 are required. There is no deadline. Applications are reviewed, and scholarships are awarded throughout the year.
