Promising High School Students Redefine "Signing" Day Through Access Point Apprenticeships

ST. LOUIS - Aug. 29, 2023 - PRLog -- t. Louis, MO – Access Point, an acclaimed technology apprenticeship initiative aiding high school students from underrepresented communities in launching careers in the information technology space, proudly announces its inaugural "Signing Day" on Thursday, August 31 at 4:00 p.m. at 3 Cityplace Drive (11^th Floor), St. Louis, MO 63141.

This celebratory event celebrates thirty distinguished high school students (out of nearly 200) formalizing their engagement with the nonprofit and includes notable guests such as key donors, representatives from Missouri's workforce and education agencies, and national Access Point partners.

Though not public, Access Point's "Signing Day" will feature brief remarks by distinguished speakers (see list below). The new apprentices, supported by mentors, family, and education/industry leaders, will officially join Access Point following signing day activities, beginning their transformative journeys.

"We are excited and proud to welcome the newest apprentices to the Access Point family," Bill Mitchell, Access Point's Executive Director, said. "Our program equips promising students with skills, knowledge, and practical experience for success in the dynamic tech workforce. Our signing day marks the start of a collaborative journey where students learn and contribute to innovative projects, within a community committed to diversity expansion."

Ron Daugherty, Founder and President of Daugherty Business Solutions, funded the 2020 pilot program of Access Point to address the tech talent gap and champion diversity. Ron believes strongly in its potential to prepare underrepresented individuals for tech careers, saying, "Access Point's swift success prompted its evolution into a dedicated non-profit—essential for shaping the future."

Anticipated Signing Day Speakers:

• Bill Mitchell: Executive Director; Access Point
• Ron Daugherty: President/CEO; Daugherty Business Solutions
• Wade Johnson: Regional Rep; Department of Labor
• Greg Laposa: Executive Dir; St. Louis Workforce Development
• Brian Crouse: Vice President; Missouri Chamber of Commerce
• Katie Adams: Chief Delivery Officer, Workforce; Safal Partners
• Sharonica Hardin-Bartley, PhD: Superintendent; School District of University City

About Access Point

Through education, training, and mentorship, we help promising young adults from under-represented communities overcome barriers to technology careers and empower them to reach their full potential.

Access Point's apprenticeship curriculum, developed with IT employers, high school teachers, and St. Louis Community College faculty, leads to well-compensated entry-level positions, supplemented by mentorship. Apprentices are thus able to gain relevant work experience, continue their studies, and better chart informed career paths. For more information,

visit: http://accesspointprogram.org