Tech Impact and Las Vegas Raiders Change the Game for Nevada's Tech Workforce

LAS VEGAS, NV – July 30, 2024—Tech Impact, a 501(c)(3) that leverages technology to advance social impact and a leader in workforce training in Nevada, and the Las Vegas Raiders are teaming up to expand and diversify Nevada's tech workforce. With women and minorities comprising less than half of Nevada's tech workforce and a report highlighting accountability issues in workforce development programs, Tech Impact strengthens its commitment to providing transparent and collaborative training programs that support underserved youth in the region, partnering with community pillars like the Las Vegas Raiders for better success. Already active supporters of Tech Impact’s ITWorks program, the Raiders provide mentorship and internships for young adults to help them secure entry-level IT roles without a college degree.  

“We are honored to partner with the Last Vegas Raiders’ IT department to provide coaching and real-world tech training opportunities to the community,” said Patrick Callihan, CEO of Tech Impact. “From exclusive behind-the-scenes back-office tours at Allegiant Stadium to seeing the intricacies of a professional football team’s IT department, the hands-on experience and inspiration the Raiders bring to these young adults is unparalleled.”  

Proving its commitment to the tech workforce within its community, the Raiders were recently awarded the Community Impact Award at last month’s annual Celebration of Impact Luncheon, which brings together program supporters, technology and business executives committed to improving the tech employment opportunities for Southern Nevada residents. The most recent cohort that partnered with the Raider's IT Department saw them collectively spend 178 hours volunteering and matched nine Raider mentors with current students.

“Joining forces with Tech Impact marks an exciting chapter for the Las Vegas Raiders as we deepen our commitment to empowering our local community and workforce. Through our partnership, we’re proud to champion the development of diverse tech talent in the Las Vegas region. Supporting initiatives like ITWorks aligns perfectly with our values, enabling us to make a meaningful impact by fostering enduring connections. Together, we’re not just building a stronger workforce but a brighter future for generations to come.” said Matt Pasco, Vice President of Technology for the Las Vegas Raiders.

Digital Gridiron: Where Football, Tech and Upskilling Collide

Tech Impact, a Cisco-certified training partner, offers the 16-week ITWorks program at no cost due to the generous support of regional foundations, companies and government programs. Students spend the first 11 weeks learning about PC hardware, troubleshooting, IT networking, security, and more to prepare for the Cisco IT Essentials and the CompTIA A+ certifications. Then, students gain real-life, hands-on experience during a five-week paid internship at a local corporation or nonprofit.  

The partnership between Tech Impact and the Raiders builds upon Cisco’s existing efforts to use technology to power an inclusive future and bridge the digital divide. As an Official Technology Partner of the National Football League, Cisco and the NFL collaborate to deliver technology education and career advancement opportunities through Cisco’s Networking Academy and other bespoke initiatives.  

Graduates are prepared for roles such as Help Desk Technicians, End User Support Techs, IT Specialists, and Field Technicians. Since its inception, ITWorks has graduated more than 1,000 students, with 80% of students employed within six months. To learn more about ITWorks and upcoming sessions, visit https://techimpact.org/itworks.  

About Tech Impact

Tech Impact is a nonprofit that leverages technology to advance social impact. Our proven workforce training programs and intermediary services prepare our graduates to launch or advance their careers in technology. We strengthen nonprofits through a full spectrum of technological support, giving them the education and services they need to deliver greater impact and help their communities thrive.