the MassMutual Foundation’s grant investments, including a multi-year grant renewal beginning in the 2025 fiscal year. These multiple forms of support align seamlessly with Tech Foundry’s mission, fostering a partnership that is mutually beneficial.
Driving Workforce Development
MassMutual's support of our workforce development efforts empowers Tech Foundry student-members to explore new career opportunities. The consideration and hiring of Tech Foundry students for internships and entry-level positions in information technology and cybersecurity exemplifies how corporate and nonprofit partnerships can promote economic mobility while also creating new talent pipelines for employers. In addition, exposure to MassMutual and employees’ various roles within the company via the volunteer program presents new perspectives and experiences that define the Tech Foundry program.
Damon DePaolo, Information Security Director at MassMutual, has been a champion of Tech Foundry’s program for several years, and recently joined the Board of Directors. He is joined on the Board by Cindy Knowles, a Strategy Enablement & Analytics Consultant at MassMutual, whose mix of IT and social service experience allows her to bring a dual lens to her Tech Foundry volunteerism.
“During my career, it’s become clear to me that talent exists in many different communities – and that access to opportunity is critical in ensuring equity to build strong families, neighborhoods, and regions,” said Damon. “As I learned more about Tech Foundry, and started volunteering as a guest speaker, I could see how MassMutual could be an impactful partner to the organization – while also benefitting from relationships with the motivated tech professionals graduating from Tech Foundry’s IT support program. Starting the field trip program, and now hiring interns and full-time staff from Tech Foundry, has been a win-win for all involved.”
For Tech Foundry student-members and alums working at MassMutual, the team support and technical training they receive helps position them for future career growth.
ANNUAL REPORT 2024 - TECH FOUNDRY 9
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