Cultívate Pathways builds equitable pathways to economic prosperity
Economic mobility is a priority for first-generation immigrant students, yet many students are excluded from career training that leads to high-wage jobs. We invest in bilingual talent by providing training and employer-valued credentials in high-growth industries that lead to family-sustaining wages.
Our Approach
Real work experience for in-demand jobs
Through industry partnerships, Cultívate students gain work experience in high-growth industries - technology, manufacturing, and construction - with the goal of follow-on employment with the company.
Employer-Valued Certification
Cultívate students gain industry-valued credentials in their chosen field. Students in the tech pathway complete the Google IT Professional Certificate and Google Automation with Python Certificate.
Social Capital through Industry Mentorship
Students build confidence and build their network towards their career goals through authentic relationships with industry professionals who reflect their lived experiences and backgrounds. Because you can't be what you can't see.
Our Team
Co-Founder and Director
Michele Rudy has over 20 years of experience working for education equity for immigrant students across policy, practice, and advocacy. Previously, she co-led a national organizing campaign to win DACA, securing legal protection for 700,000 undocumented students and designed a business accelerator for Black, Latinx, and Native entrepreneurs at Arizona State University. Michele recently earned her doctorate in education leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where she focused on educational equity for immigrant students.
Senior Advisor
Derek Niño is a national leader in equity-centered workforce development. In his role at Jobs for the Future, he led regional, state, and national partners to increase access to work-based learning opportunities for Black and Latinx and young people. His areas of expertise include analyzing and mapping the assets of regional, state, and national systems, developing career pathways, and English learner education. Derek has advised the Corona-Norco Unified School District and the Delaware Department of Education on English learner education. Derek holds an Ed.L.D. from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Funders
American Student Assistance
Arnold Ventures
Charter School Growth Fund
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Charles Koch Foundation
The Joyce Foundation
Walton Family Foundation
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