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Bridge to Work Academy graduate details supports that helped land an internship and job
Summary
A graduate of the Bridge to Work Academy described how the 12‑week program (transportation assistance, paid internships, soft skills, CPR training) helped her secure an internship and sustained employment; the committee highlighted transportation and school partnerships as priorities.
The Youth Empowerment Committee heard a firsthand account from Kamaya Priester, a graduate of the Bridge to Work Academy, on how a 12‑week program for youth in foster care provided supports that helped her move into work.
Kamaya said the program taught workplace communication and interview skills, provided transportation to weekly meetings and internship sites, and paid for a CPR class. She credited an internship placement at the Braze Shop for giving her the real‑world experience that led to ongoing employment and said the Academy helped her build confidence and professional skills.
Jamal Brown, education and employment specialist with Family Support Services and the Bridge to Work Academy, described the program model: three cohorts per year of about 10–15 students, hybrid learning, leadership development (student‑run executive roles), case‑manager coordination from partner agencies, and community partner supports including financial literacy classes and college/university speakers. Brown said the program offers paid internships and transportation, both critical supports for participants.
Committee members praised the youth testimony and emphasized two priorities: ensuring reliable transportation for apprentices and embedding school partnerships so students can access pre‑apprenticeship credit and placements. Public comment from apprenticeship association representatives urged continued city support and aspirational apprentice participation goals on city‑funded projects.
The committee did not vote on any motions. Members asked staff to follow up on transit and school coordination and flagged upcoming budget discussions for further review.
