Texans Can Academy - Garland students are opening their minds to career possibilities with YearUpDFW, a program designed to empower urban young adults to reach their potential. YearUpDFW is partnering with the school to help students interested in business and information technology careers by teaching them lifelong skills that will open doors to future career opportunities.

Four students were accepted into the ongoing program, which begins this semester. They recently attended an orientation where YearUpDFW representatives explained the program and how it helps students pursuing business careers. During the year-long program, students will have the opportunity to intern at different organizations, get hands-on experience in their prospective field of study, prepare for and conduct mock interviews with business professionals and receive guidance from mentors with similar backgrounds.

“YearUpDFW is a great program for our students to learn valuable skills and training before they enter the job market,” said Texans Can Academy - Garland Principal Daniel Johnson. “The program has a lot of value for our students interested in business careers. All of the students in the program are one hundred percent invested, which shows their dedication in taking steps to reach their education and career goals.”

Students in the program will attend core business and information technology classes at El Centro College. They will earn college credit while training for internships with Fortune 500 companies and learning the skills needed for future careers in their field. After completing the program, students will be close to attaining their Associate Degree and will be able to transfer their credits toward a Bachelor’s Degree and continue their education at the University of North Texas at Dallas.

YearUp was founded in 2000 with the mission to close the opportunity divide by ensuring that young adults gain the skills, experiences and support that will empower them to reach their potential through careers and higher education. The program is offered for students and young adults at least 18 years of age with locations across the United States. Texans Can Academies offers students, aged 14 to 21, a second chance at earning their high school diploma instead of a General Education Development (GED).

For more information about YearUp, please visit www.yearup.org. For more information about Texans Can Academies, please visit www.texanscan.org.