( Chicago, IL, July 8th 2014 ) — Today TransTech Social Enterprise ( TTSE ), announced the launch of their tech-focused training and apprenticeship program for the LGBTQIA community with a focus on trans identified individuals. Led by Executive Director / CEO Angelica Ross, TransTech will have two main programs addressing unemployment in the transgender community:
1. ) The Training Academy with workshops focusing on 3 pillars of professional development: empowerment, education, and employment.
2. ) TransTech Apprenticeship Program is a creative design firm that offers a graphic design and web development Apprenticeship. The 120 hour commitment will work alongside industry professionals with hands on projects, intensive online web training program, and finishing with a professional portfolio.
On July 20th, at 1:00 PM( CST ), Trans Tech will host a free orientation to introduce these programs to the community. This event will be hosted at the Center on Halsted ( 3656 N Halsted ) and is open to all who are interested in supporting or being part of the Trans Tech programs. The orientation will go through a model workshop following their TTSE's signature structure of empowerment, educate and employment structure, including a tech-hands-on activity and keynote by Board President Precious Davis.
"At TransTech, our programs aims to equip individuals with a technical skill-set for survival. We start with entry level skills, then build on those to increase an individual's experience and proficiency in an increasingly technological job market," said Executive Director / CEO Angelica Ross.
Widespread systematic discrimination within educational and employment organizations can be paralyzing to the personal and professional development of trans-identified individuals, with trans women of color being more disproportionately affected. This type of discrimination has been extensively researched by numerous academic and non-profit organizations. Most notable is "Injustice at Every Turn" in which the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force surveyed over 6,000 trans identified individuals. This study showed over 55% of transgender people being fired from their jobs, 16% dropping out of school and being four times more likely to live in poverty.
At TransTech, the goal is to start to increase the numbers of educated, empowered, and employed transgender people. The programming is open to the entire LGBTQIA community, but TransTech will focus on those facing the highest level of discrimination. Starting with the July 20th orientation, TransTech will offer their "e3 Workshop," a customizable workshop for those interested in economic empowerment. The workshop's goals include strengthening resume writing, developing interviewing skills, and a seminar on returning to school. TTSE's apprenticeship and e-learning courses will be launched later this year.
"At TTSE, we want to create a space where people can flourish and grow, and where transgender people can explore their creativity and be part of an professional environment," said Joey Grant Communication and Operations Director.
About Angelica Ross:
Without access to funds for college, Angelica was able to teach herself everything she knows today that has served her well in building a career transitioning from an independent contractor into her current role as Executive Director of TransTech Social Enterprise. Angelica began with the tools of basic data entry and desktop publishing then expanded them into design and web development, branding strategies, sales & marketing and more. Having the ability to telecommute gave Angelica the independence she needed to transition, and discover her true value beyond her body.
July 20th Invite link
www.eventbrite.com/e/transtech-orientation-registration-12092146937
