About Us
The Industry Scholars Program, launched in 2016 and funded by NYC Public Schools, is operated by Grant Associates, one of the largest workforce development companies in the city. Our program is dedicated to bridging the gap between education and the workforce, providing New York City high school students with the skills, experiences, and networks they need to thrive in their chosen career paths.
We focus on offering students opportunities in eight major industry fields:
- Automotive & Transportation
- Business & Finance
- Construction & Sustainability
- Culinary, Hospitality & Tourism
- Engineering, Architecture & Robotics
- Healthcare
- Information Technology
- Media & Design
These industries represent some of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving sectors in today’s economy, offering students a diverse range of career pathways to explore and pursue.
Our Mission
The mission of the Industry Scholars Program is to empower New York City high school students by providing them with meaningful, hands-on career experiences that prepare them for success in the workforce. We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to explore their career interests, develop practical skills, and build a professional network that will support their future ambitions. Through our innovative program model, we aim to create a pipeline of skilled, motivated young professionals who are ready to contribute to and thrive in their chosen industries.
Our Unique Approach
The Industry Scholars Program operates through a strategic and collaborative partnership model designed to maximize the impact of work-based learning experiences. Our approach relies on the following two key types of partnerships:
- Sector Intermediaries: These are specialized training and workforce organizations with deep industry ties. Sector Intermediaries play a pivotal role in the program by cultivating strong relationships with employers in specific sectors. They work closely with schools to integrate work-based learning opportunities into the curriculum and help build the in-school capacity needed to sustain these partnerships over time. By leveraging their expertise and connections, Sector Intermediaries ensure that students have access to high-quality, relevant career experiences that align with their interests and goals.
- Sector Employers: Our network of over 500 employer partners spans a wide range of industries, all of whom are committed to investing in the future of New York City’s youth. These employers provide invaluable career exploration opportunities by hosting career days, workplace tours, job-shadowing sessions, and hands-on activities such as mock interviews and resume reviews. Additionally, they offer paid internships that allow students to gain real-world experience in their chosen fields. Sector Employers play a critical role in shaping the future workforce by mentoring students, sharing industry insights, and providing them with the tools they need to succeed.
Impact and Achievements
Since its inception, the Industry Scholars Program has made a significant impact on the lives of thousands of students across New York City. To date, we have:
- Connected over 5,000 students to work-based learning opportunities, giving them the chance to explore careers, develop skills, and build professional networks.
- Placed more than 10,000 students in paid, industry-aligned internships, providing them with practical experience and a competitive edge as they enter the workforce.
- Partnered with over 500 employers across eight major industries, creating a robust network of professionals dedicated to supporting and mentoring the next generation.
Why Choose the Industry Scholars Program?
The Industry Scholars Program offers students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the professional world while still in high school. By participating in our program, students gain:
- Real-World Experience: Hands-on internships and work-based learning opportunities that provide practical experience in a chosen field.
- Industry Insights: Exposure to diverse career paths and insider knowledge from professionals who are experts in their industries.
- Professional Networks: The chance to connect with industry leaders, potential mentors, and peers who share similar career interests.
- Career Readiness: Development of essential skills, such as problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and professionalism, that are crucial for success in any career.
At the Industry Scholars Program, we are not just preparing students for jobs—we are preparing them for meaningful careers that align with their passions and ambitions. Our commitment to excellence and innovation drives everything we do, from our partnerships with leading organizations to our focus on delivering high-impact learning experiences.
Join us in shaping the future of New York City’s workforce and empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators!