Specialisterne Academy: IT Support Technician Certification Program

The Specialisterne Academy is recruiting!

Specialisterne has partnered with the HG Foundation and IBM SkillsBuild to create a fully online, 8-week program. During the academy, you will receive a comprehensive blend of technical and soft skill instruction to prepare you for the demands of the IT industry.

Academy participants graduate from the program with an IT Support Technician Certification, as well as applied industry-specific experience and work readiness training.

If you’re eager to transform your IT skills into a rewarding career, apply today and let’s unlock your full potential together.

Before applying, please check our website to find answers to common questions about the program and application process.

Applications will be accepted until Wednesday, April 16th.
 

The Specialisterne Academy will be offered in 7 cohorts. The available cohorts are: May to June 2025, September to October 2025, January to February 2026, May to June 2026, September to October 2026, January to February 2027, and May to June 2027.

Cohort 1 Course Dates
Start Date: May 5, 2025
End Date: June 27, 2025

What makes this program unique?

• Earn industry-recognized credentials
• Self-directed eLearning plus real-time instructor-led programming
• Practical, hands-on exercises
• Small class sizes and supportive coaches
• Focus on social and professional skills, not just technology
• It’s free!

Who is this program for?

To apply, you must:

• Be an autistic adult (18+)
• Be actively seek employment
• Have graduated from high school
• Be interested in learning about Information Technology
• Be available to participate in a full-time 8-week program
• Live in and be work eligible in New York State (within a reasonable commuting distance to New York City)

Program Readiness

Please note, this program is entirely online. To be successful you must:

• Be able to learn and collaborate in a virtual environment
• Have reliable access to internet, a computer, and a suitable workspace
• Be available online 9am-5pm (ET), Monday-Friday for the duration of the course
• Be able to complete 2-3 hours of independent reading and eLearning each day
• Be comfortable with basic digital tasks like browsing the web, sending emails, and using video calling technology

Potential Outcomes

• Specialisterne will support Academy Graduates in seeking and securing employment
• Business partners of Specialisterne will make selections of graduates for a co-op, internship, part-time or full-time position
• Those not selected for work opportunities may elect to continue working with Specialisterne in identifying alternative programs and employment opportunities

The Specialisterne Academy Process:

Application

• Fill out the online application and select the option that best describes your situation for each question to help Specialisterne understand your eligibility for the program.

Assessment

• Eligible applicants will be asked to complete an online skills assessment and fill out a written profile to help you showcase your fit for the program.
• Applicants who meet program expectations will be invited to complete an online test module and book a discussion meeting with Specialisterne to learn more about your motivation to build IT skills, your interest in the program, and your employment goals.

Selection

• Selected candidates will be invited to participate in the Academy and onboarded into the program. Candidates may be waitlisted for participation in future cohorts.

If you have questions, need assistance or would like to request accommodation for any of these steps, please contact us at [email protected]