Dear TechFluent Community,
As we approach the end of the year, I am drawn to the spirit of reflection and gratitude. It is during this time that I am reminded of the invaluable support and contribution you have made to the TechFluent community. I want to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation for your dedication and wish you and your loved ones joy and warmth during this holiday season.
Your unwavering commitment, steadfast support, and generosity have been instrumental in driving our mission forward. This year has been filled with growth, innovation, collaboration, and the positive impact we have achieved is a testament to the strength of our community.
Looking back on the journey of TechFluent throughout 2023, I am thrilled to share some of our key accomplishments:
- Expanded Collaboration with Microsoft: TechFluent is excited to announce an expanded collaboration with Microsoft, marking our participation in the Microsoft Learn Career Connected and TechSpark programs. This collaboration signifies a significant step forward in our mission to reach and impact more individuals.
- Summit Scholarships: In partnership with Dynamic Communities, we had the privilege of awarding 13 graduates with scholarships to Community Summit, providing them with expanded horizons, networking opportunities, and connections with potential employers.
- Learner Applications: We received an overwhelming response with nearly 300 learner applications. After conducting approximately 130 interviews, we proudly enrolled 25 exceptionally dedicated learners into our program.
- Tech Assistance: Recognizing the importance of technology access, we provided support to 23 learners by supplying laptops and essential computer accessories in March, ensuring that every learner had the tools they needed.
- Training Milestones: Our learners demonstrated incredible commitment, completing over 200 hours of training, participating in two project simulations, mentorship programs, and achieving Microsoft certification.
- Graduation Success: The year culminated in the graduation of 19 individuals in August, a testament to their hard work and the supportive community fostered at TechFluent. TechFluent maintained an 80% graduation rate, consistent with the previous year.
- Job Placement: We are proud to announce that 7 of our graduates successfully secured jobs, marking a significant milestone in their professional journeys.
- Global Volunteer Network: TechFluent thrived with the support of an inspiring global volunteer team of over 100 individuals. We welcomed new volunteer Leadership team members, including Robert Pindar, Jessica Jolly, Lindsay (LMG) Millett-Glass, Margaret Korfhage, and Ayomide Akodu. Their dedication and passion have been instrumental in the success of our programs.
- Mock Interviews: We conducted two rounds of mock interviews in collaboration with industry leaders RSM and Microsoft, providing our learners with invaluable insights and experience.
- Personal Milestone & Commitment to Growth: At the end of this year, through our valued partnership with DUG (Dynamics User Group), I achieved a significant milestone by transitioning into a full-time role, allowing me to solely focus on TechFluent. This move not only underscores my commitment to our mission but also enables me to dedicate my efforts entirely to TechFluent's growth and impact.
- Corporate Sponsors: Thank you to all our sponsors this past year for donating to TechFluent enabling us to successfully support our learners with a special thank you to Stoneridge Software and Ludia Consulting.
As we look forward to 2024 with enthusiasm and hope, our vision for TechFluent is filled with exciting possibilities. Here are some of the upcoming changes for next year:
- Scaling Enrollment: Our aim is to increase our impact by expanding enrollment to accommodate 100 learners. This growth will enable us to empower a larger community with our transformative learning programs. The 2024 Learner application window will begin in January. Keep an eye on social media for updates!
- Diverse Learning Options: Introducing a flexible approach to education, we plan to offer both live virtual and pilot a self-paced learning option. This allows us to accommodate learners' schedules and preferences more effectively.
- Comprehensive Curriculum Enhancement: Introducing specialized tracks within our expanded curriculum, we will offer in-depth training in key areas such as Business Intelligence (BI), Customer Engagement (CE), Finance and Operations (F&O), and Business Central (BC). This tailored approach allows learners to deepen their expertise in specific product specialties.
- New Board of Directors: Keep an eye out for the announcement of our new Board of Directors. Their diverse expertise and commitment will play a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction of TechFluent, ensuring we continue to innovate and meet the evolving needs of our learners.
TechFluent has ambitious goals for growth and creating a profound impact in our community. Looking beyond next year, our BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) is to place 1,000 people in tech jobs and envision a future where our organization is run and led by our thriving alumni community.
To achieve these goals, we need your continued support. You can help us by considering our graduates for employment opportunities, volunteering, and donating today. Your commitment to TechFluent fuels our mission and inspires positive change.
Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a fantastic new year,
Liz McGlennen
Executive Director
