Lenovo, a global technology leader, is taking significant strides toward creating a more inclusive tech workforce by expanding its partnership with Code the Dream (CTD) through the newly launched Tandem Apprenticeship program. This initiative directly addresses the growing demand for diverse tech talent and provides small businesses with insights into leveraging similar initiatives in their own organizations.
The Tandem Apprenticeship program serves as a vital link between underrepresented communities and the tech industry. By hosting apprentices Oksana Feterovskaya and Osbaldo Aguilar, Lenovo not only strengthens its workforce but also allows these individuals to showcase their skills on critical development projects. Both apprentices contributed to projects that focus on maintaining device health, which is essential for organizations relying on Lenovo products to mitigate downtime and enhance operational efficiency.
“I really love challenges. This was a great opportunity to be in a big corporation and see how everything works. And everyone at Lenovo is so friendly and welcoming,” expressed Feterovskaya. Her enthusiasm reflects the program’s ability to cultivate talent from nontraditional backgrounds while enabling apprentices to gain invaluable experience in a corporate setting.
For small business owners, the benefits of adopting a similar apprenticeship model can be substantial. By engaging with community-focused organizations like CTD, small businesses can gain access to a diverse talent pool eager to contribute. According to Lenovo’s Senior Engineering Manager Sayantan Guha, “Oksana’s enthusiasm and problem-solving skills are exactly what we look for in a great team member.” This sentiment highlights the positive impact that passionate individuals can bring to small teams.
The flexibility inherent in the Tandem Apprenticeship program makes it particularly attractive to businesses of all sizes. Linda Liu, Senior Advisor of Growth & Partnerships at Code the Dream, notes the program’s adaptability, stating, “We’re able to sit down with companies, discuss their goals and needs, and then connect them with apprentices who are the best fit.” This personalized approach not only aligns apprentices with specific organizational requirements but also fosters a mutually beneficial relationship.
While the advantages of implementing an apprenticeship program are clear, small business owners should also be aware of potential challenges. Committing to mentorship requires an investment of time and resources that may seem daunting for smaller teams already stretched thin. Managing the onboarding process and integrating apprentices into existing workflows can also demand careful planning to ensure a smooth transition and maximize productivity.
However, the long-term benefits often outweigh these initial hurdles. By investing in training and development, small businesses can cultivate loyal employees who are dedicated to their company’s success. Many successful apprenticeship programs ultimately lead to increased employee retention, a critical factor for small businesses looking to nurture their talent and minimize turnover costs.
Lenovo’s commitment to workforce diversity is reinforced by their proactive approach in equipping today’s workforce for future challenges. “Lenovo is committed to equipping today’s workforce with the technology and opportunities needed to transform their career, lives, and communities,” stated Sydni Behm, Lenovo Corporate Citizenship Global Program Manager. The company emphasizes that collaboration with organizations like Code the Dream is crucial in opening doors for underrepresented communities in tech.
As Feterovskaya and Aguilar continue to develop their careers, they also contribute back to their communities as mentors, demonstrating the program’s ripple effect on future generations. Aguilar, reflecting on his own journey, emphasizes the importance of persistence, signaling to mentees that determination can lead to successful outcomes.
By following Lenovo’s lead and considering similar apprenticeships, small business owners can foster diversity within their teams while empowering individuals to succeed. The Tandem Apprenticeship program not only serves as a template for inclusion but also presents an actionable insight for small businesses aiming to adapt to a rapidly changing workforce landscape.
For more information about the Tandem Apprenticeship program, visit the original post here.
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