Bay Tech Career Initiative

What is the Bay Tech Career Initiative?

The Bay Tech Career Initiative (BTCI) is a workforce development program designed to prepare young adults ages 18–30 for high-demand careers in information technology and other industries that rely on tech talent. Funded by the California Workforce Accelerator Fund (WAF 12.0), the program provides a bridge between Oakland’s diverse communities and the region’s growing digital economy. 

Through paid training, hands-on work experience, and career coaching, BTCI creates pathways into roles such as technical support, data science, cybersecurity, database administration, and Salesforce administration. Participants also receive weekly stipends, mentorship, and a personal laptop with one year of free IT support from Oakland Tech Exchange to ensure equitable access to opportunity. 

BTCI Goals

• Connects Oakland youth to high-demand tech career pathways
• Provide paid training and real-world work experience 
• Build partnerships between employers, training providers, and the community
• Ensure equitable access to digital economy opportunities 

Training Providers 

BTCI collaborates with local training organizations and employer partners to deliver industry-relevant curricula and on-the-job learning opportunities that prepare participants for sustainable careers in technology.

How to Apply

If you would like to join or work with BTCI, please navigate to your corresponding sub-page below:

• Participant Page
• Employer Partner Page
• Training Partner Page

For more information, contact:

Quinallison Dovey