As a technology leader, Tina Robertson has created $1B in revenue growth for complex, global clients such as HP, Cisco, Oracle, Google, and is now working with workforce development nonprofits, including StrideLabs. She started her career in technology without a college degree, but had the opportunity to develop and grow because someone saw capabilities in her and gave her a chance. This is one of the reasons she is passionate about supporting confidence and skills-building workforce development programs, and creating opportunities for people underrepresented in tech.
“As my career expanded, I developed the confidence and financial ability to return to college and complete my AA degree at American River College and my bachelor’s degree at Harvard University,” Robertson said.
She described why she believes the partnership with StrideLabs works, a partnership in which apprenticeship opportunities are created for people facing barriers to employment in tech and other fields. The lead sponsor for the partnership that began in earnest last month was Lao Family Community Development, a nonprofit with a geographic reach that extends from Oakland to Sacramento.
“We are grateful for the partnership,” Su Dung, Program Manager for Global Career Development Facilitator (GLDF), said over email at the start of the collaboration, which by all accounts has been a success. Robertson reflected on why it has worked so well.
“I can say we all took the time to learn about the other until together, we found alignment and opportunity – and the feedback has been excellent so far. The program, participants and stakeholders are thrilled with StrideLabs as a worksite partner,” she said.
In looking toward future opportunities that fit the StrideLabs mission, Robertson then talked about what she is most interested in exploring.
“My goal is to continue to find funding that supports the many participants looking for experience and align them with small, micro and nonprofit businesses that see the benefit of investing in those in the community that would otherwise not be able to explore a career in technology.”
StrideLabs recently extended its career-building apprenticeship experience in May for two apprentices, who are beginning to tackle new tech projects, and is excited to offer additional professional development and skills-building experiences to more people at the next available opportunity.
To learn more about how you can support the StrideLabs mission, email us at: info@stridelabs.org!