The BlackRock Foundation has granted $500,000 to Atlas School, a tech training institution in Tulsa. The funding will enhance the school's ability to provide wraparound services aimed at reducing enrollment barriers for students. These services include housing, nutritious meals, and transportation support, facilitated through new case managers. The grant aims to help students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, successfully complete Atlas' 20-month tech training programs.
Atlas School's programs focus on machine learning, systems programming, and full-stack development, with designs tailored in partnership with local tech employers. The additional support aims to address financial pressures faced by students, which often hinder their education and career pursuits. Libby Ediger, CEO of Atlas School, highlighted the challenges students face, stating, “An unexpected financial expense can cause significant stress that may make it difficult to focus on their studies.” She expressed gratitude for the grant's role in helping students overcome such challenges.
The push to strengthen Oklahoma's tech workforce comes amidst significant job growth projections in tech-related fields within the state. Predictions indicate that over 70% of jobs in Oklahoma will require a postsecondary credential in the coming decade, though currently, only 42% of the workforce meets this criterion. Moreover, Tulsa's designation as a national Tech Hub promises to create around 60,000 high-paying tech jobs in Oklahoma.
Claire Chamberlain, President of The BlackRock Foundation, reaffirmed the foundation's commitment, stating, "We're proud to support these wraparound services—breaking down financial barriers so more students can pursue training, graduate successfully, and ultimately contribute to a stronger Oklahoma workforce."
This funding aligns with The BlackRock Foundation's broader mission to bolster economic security across the U.S. through partnerships with local nonprofits. The foundation focuses on helping low- to moderate-income households build financial stability and upward mobility.
Atlas School is noted for its dedication to making tech education accessible by training students in essential technical and professional skills. More information about its programs can be found on their website.