Barriers to entry for youth living in disconnected communities goes beyond knowing the technical skills. The interpersonal behaviors that help them to get by in their neighborhood may not serve them well at work. Additionally, the instability that often comes with poverty can pull youth away from a regular work schedule. Rigid workplace policies often do not flex for varied needs. Helping youth understand the different expectations of employers and helping them to work toward available coping mechanisms is important to successful work opportunities.
Very early on, the knowledge gap for low-income youth prevents them from considering Tech as a career path. When they begin to approach it, the unspoken rules of the workplace can be discouraging. Teaching professionalism can help youth feel confident in any career path they take. |
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