Prepare for High-Growth Careers Before Graduation
GradRise is a FREE, 10-week virtual workforce readiness program for Connecticut students in 11th and 12th grade, designed to equip young people with industry-recognized credentials, mentorship, and career-ready skills aligned with today’s evolving labor market.
Buil;t for
Earn a Credential Employers Actually Value
WHY GRADRISE?
& Why Now
The future of work is changing - and students need preparation before graduation.
As technology reshapes nearly every industry, too many young people leave high school without credentials, career exposure, or clear next steps. Early access to industry-recognized credentials helps students build confidence, direction, and real advantage.
GradRise prepares students for what comes next,
before it matters most.
GradRise exists to close this gap.
By offering credential-based workforce preparation before graduation, GradRise helps students build confidence, clarity, and competitive advantage—without cost to families.
WHAT IS GRADRISE?
GradRise is a virtual, cohort-based workforce preparation program that helps students move from curiosity to capability.
Through GradRise, students will:
Earn the Google
IT Support Professional Certificate
Explore careers connected to technology and high-growth industries
Build professional skills that strengthen resumes and college applications
Engage with mentors and industry professionals
Gain clarity and confidence about life after high school
Future cohorts will expand into additional pathways, including cybersecurity, aligned with workforce demand.
.png)
Free to participate • Virtual • Open to CT 11th–12th graders
Students (Grades 11–12)
Build real skills. Earn a credential. Explore what’s possible.
Parents & Families
A structured, virtual opportunity that supports career readiness and future planning—without financial barriers.
WHO GRADRISE IS FOR
Schools & Counselors
A workforce-aligned program that complements academic learning and supports post-secondary readiness.
Corporate & Philanthropic Partners
An early investment in tomorrow’s workforce through credentialing, exposure, and talent development.
What Students Will Experience
GradRise is designed to feel practical, engaging, and forward-looking—connecting learning to real careers.
Interactive virtual learning aligned to workforce needs
Hands-on credential preparation with tangible outcomes
Exposure to professionals working in technology today
Mentorship and guidance from trusted adults
Career exploration that connects skills to opportunity
*Full program structure, schedules, and expectations are shared during orientation for accepted students, ensuring clarity and readiness from day one.
Program at a glance
Format:
Virtual
Length:
10 weeks
Eligibility: Connecticut students in grades 11–12
Credential:
Google IT Support Professional Certificate
FAQs
Full program details, schedules, and expectations are shared during orientation for students who are accepted.
Who can apply?
Connecticut students currently in 11th or 12th grade.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. There is no cost to apply or participate.
Is the program virtual?
Yes. GradRise is delivered fully online.
Do students need prior tech experience?
No prior experience is required.
What credential do students earn?
The Google IT Support Professional Certificate.
How are students selected?Selection is based on interest, readiness, and commitment to participate.
How does this support college and career readiness?
GradRise strengthens resumes, builds confidence, and helps students make informed post-secondary decisions.
How can schools or partners get involved?
Schools and organizations are encouraged to connect with Girls For Technology to explore collaboration opportunities.
POWERED BY
For more than a decade, Girls For Technology has prepared young people for success at the intersection of education, technology, and the future of work.
GradRise builds on this legacy - expanding access to credential-based workforce preparation for Connecticut students and creating scalable pathways aligned with national workforce needs.
For Sponsors & Partners
Why Invest in GradRise?
GradRise is designed as a workforce solution, not just a youth program.
