State partnership to bolster IT workforce

Pennsylvania has partnered with NuPaths to provide information technology (IT) internships and apprenticeships at state agencies. 

 The Shapiro Administration said Wednesday the program is for high school graduates, veterans, and those in career-transition and will bolster the state’s IT workforce as Gov. Josh Shapiro looks to make digital services more accessible.  

“As one of the largest employers in Pennsylvania, we have an incredible opportunity to be a leader in supporting Gov. Shapiro’s vision for the Commonwealth’s schools, workforce, and economy,” said Secretary of Administration Neil Weaver, whose office is responsible for recruitment and hiring for state agencies. “We are excited to partner with NuPaths to provide hands-on experience to prepare these students for careers in the tech industry and help meet our workforce needs.” 

Through the partnership, students in NuPaths’ Associate Website Developer and Digital Marketing Assistant programs can participate in paid internships with digital communications teams in state agencies to gain relevant experience in their field of study.  

Interns may write code, troubleshoot technical issues, update and maintain agency websites, draft and post social media content, design graphics, and assist web services and digital teams with overall content strategy, the administration said. 

The Office of Administration (OA) has established an IT apprenticeship, during which apprentices will participate in NuPaths’ Technical Support Specialist program.  

This work-based learning program offers accelerated learning through classroom training, mentoring, and by partnering apprentices with experts in the field, Shapiro’s office said.  Apprentices who successfully complete their one year-apprenticeship will be offered a full-time Help Desk Technician position at OA. 

 “This new initiative demonstrates the important role that partnerships and collaboration play in creating opportunities for learners,” said Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “The Shapiro Administration is committed to giving students the freedom to chart their own course, and this internship program will provide the hands-on, real-world experiences that lead to fulfilling careers.”