Skill Up. Stand Out.
Unlock Your Future in Tech
Proven model. Real results. UpSkill—funded over nine editions by Microsoft (via the Charlotte, NC Mayor’s Office) and the New York State Department of Labor—takes learners from AI/digital skills to shipped projects and real jobs. Co-design an industry-aligned pathway today.
What is Upskill?
The Upskill Direct Entry Pre-Apprenticeship Program, powered by We Connect The Dots, Inc. in partnership with Nebula Academy, is an 8-week virtual training experience designed to equip underrepresented and underserved individuals with the skills needed to launch high-demand careers in Information Technology (IT). This tuition-free program removes financial barriers, making quality technical education accessible to (ages 16 to adult) including women, veterans, and unemployed or underemployed individuals.
Program tuition is $7,200, and scholarships are available for those who qualify.
Why UpSkill?
100% Virtual
Industry-Aligned Training – Introductory training in digital literacy, professional branding, automation and AI tools, soft skills, resilience, and real-world project experience
Hands-On Experience – Apply your skills in real-world business projects.
Career Readiness & Mentorship – Receive mentorship, career coaching, and professional development support.
Pathways to Apprenticeships & Jobs – Transition into a registered apprenticeship program or secure job placement through employer partnerships.
Microsoft PowerApps Certification – Gain an industry-recognized credential to boost your employability.
Select an Upskill Cohort
Cohort V8
Application Closed
Online Course
Cohort V9
Application Closed
Sep 22nd - Nov 14th, 2025
Online Course
Cohort V10
Application TBD
Online Course
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Participants must meet the age and residency requirements to apply.
Must be eager to learn!
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The Upskill program is designed for individuals looking to break into the technology sector without prior experience. The curriculum is structured into two key phases:
Workforce Training (4 Weeks): Participants develop technical proficiency in business automation, AI-driven solutions, and low-code application development. They also receive soft skills training in problem-solving, teamwork, and communication.
Workforce Applied Training (4 Weeks): After completing the 4-week workforce training, participants gain real-world experience with a workforce partner organization, applying their newly acquired IT skills in a professional setting. Many IT careers don’t require a college degree but demand practical skills training. Today’s tech leaders often started in entry-level roles, building expertise through industry-recognized certifications. By mastering foundational IT skills, participants can advance their careers, increase earning potential, and transition from middle to high-skilled roles in the tech industry.
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Introduction to:
Microsoft PowerApps
Microsoft Office 365
ChatGPT
Collaboration using Microsoft Teams
Canva Magic Media + AI for brand building
Business Communication skills
LinkedIn Profiles with LinkedIn Learning
Resume Preparation
and more!
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To be eligible for a scholarship you must:
Meet cohort residency requirements
Be unemployed or underemployed (earning less than $45,000 anually)
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For questions, send an email or DM us on any social!
Program Overview and Requirements
Workforce Experience Partners
Nonprofits and local businesses can host a 4-week workforce experience, helping participants apply new skills in a real setting. To learn more and register, sign up below. After registering, you'll get info on virtual partner sessions via Microsoft Teams.
Thank you to all of our community and workforce experience partners!
Meet the Team
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![A young man with black hair tied back, wearing round glasses, a gray and brown zip-up jacket, standing in front of a blue horizontal siding wall.]()
Jonathan Thus
Technical Administrator, We Connect The Dots
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![Young woman outdoors with trees and green foliage in the background.]()
Anam Javaid
Coach, Nebula Academy
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![A woman with blonde hair wearing a black blazer and a statement necklace, smiling at the camera in an indoor setting.]()
Laurie Carey
CEO, Nebula Academy
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![Portrait of a smiling woman with blonde hair, wearing a black blazer, gold necklace, and hoop earrings, against a black background.]()
Shauna Oenning
Executive Director, We Connect The Dots
Frequently Asked Questions
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No prior experience is required for this program. Having a growth mindset and a desire to learn are qualities we look for in selecting participants.
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After applying, all applicants must complete a virtual interview via Microsoft Teams, and scholarship eligibility must be verified. Selection is based on the applicant’s demonstrated need, desire to participate, and commitment to completing the program. Registration will close once all available seats are filled.
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The start date is currently set for Monday, September 22, 2025. (Dates may change based on NYS grant guidelines and registration.)
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Eight weeks, beginning September 22, 2025 November 14, 2025. (Dates may change based on NYS grant guidelines and registration.)
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A laptop is required as well as internet access, we can provide laptops to participants to use for the entire program with a signed laptop loaner agreement and credit card.
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If your laptop meets the program requirements, participants may opt to use their laptop. All laptops must have a functioning camera to participate in the online classroom sessions.
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Approximately 15 students will be selected to participate in the program across the community locations.
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The program will take place virtually using the Microsoft Teams online collaboration tool.
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Participants must arrive in the online classroom by 8:45 am EST; the day will conclude at 4 pm with an hour lunch break for six hours of learning each day.