Since 2014, we at Hopeworks have had the pleasure of witnessing and contributing to Ashley’s professional growth. She first came to Hopeworks to participate in our Hope Through School program, where she first began to nurture her skills in tech. Advancing into an internship in our G.I.S. department, Ashley shined bright as a critical team member, helping complete important work for our largest clients. She was later awarded Hopeworks’ Townsend Scholarship which she used to pursue her studies in Medical Billing and Coding at Camden County College. More recently, Ashley has flourished in her role here as Recruitment Assistant, contributing to Hopeworks trainee acquisition and retention.
In every role she has filled at Hopeworks, Ashley has shown tremendous dedication and professionalism. We are now thrilled to support her during the transition to her new role working as a Contractor for New Jersey American Water!
“Hopeworks has taught me many things besides technology. I have learned professionalism, presentation skills, and how to come out of my shell. I have had the opportunity to learn and grow alongside Hopeworks and I am grateful. Hopeworks has had many changes over the years. These changes are not only reflected by the youth, but also in the community itself. As Hopeworks expands, I am hopeful it will continue to have a strong community between the staff and youth and a sense of acceptance to all entering.” -Ashley Pena, Hopeworks Alumna
In this series, Michelle Cheang, director of Catalyze, sat down with alumni and current participants of Catalyze-supported career-connected learning programs. Through in-depth conversations, Michelle and the learners discuss their experiences, growth and career goals. In the following videos, we'll hear directly from EJ Garcia, a learner at Hopeworks, about how he has developed his career […]
This episode of The Water Online Show focuses on the water industry's workforce shortage. Hopeworks, a training organization, is addressing this challenge by partnering with utilities like American Water. Hopeworks identifies employer needs, trains young professionals, and places them in well-suited roles. This innovative approach is helping to bridge the skills gap and ensure a […]
Grace Manning leads a program helping land young professionals work at companies like Subaru. Grace Manning is director of employer and alumni relations at Hopeworks, a nonprofit organization based in Philadelphia and South New Jersey, offering workforce development programs to young adults. Through training programs, paid internships, and placement services with local employers, Hopeworks helps young, diverse […]
