New program provides earn-while-you-learn
trades training for underserved participants.
AUSTIN,
Texas, July 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Interplay
Learning, the leading provider of immersive skilled trades
training, has proudly announced its partnership with the DBAKE
Foundation, a St. Louis-based
non-profit organization dedicated to promoting construction trades
education for underserved youth. DBAKE is integrating Interplay
Academy job-ready certificate programs into their paid, six-week
pre-apprenticeship program to help young people gain job-ready
skills and find fulfilling careers in the skilled trades.
Founded in 2022 by general contractor Annamarie Baker, the DBAKE Foundation is on a
mission to fulfill the vision of her late son, Damion Baker, by creating awareness around
trades careers and providing greater access to leading career
training for underrepresented residents of St. Louis.
Commencing in September 2024,
DBAKE's earn-while-you-learn, six-week pre-apprenticeship program
will feature Interplay Academy job-ready certificate pathways in
HVAC, plumbing, electrical, construction, multi-family maintenance,
building maintenance, and appliances. Leveraging immersive 3D
simulations, VR, and high-impact video content, the pathways will
guide learners from zero trades skills to job-ready. Curated
training paths, combined with career support and in-person
instruction, will lead participants to safely work towards earning
an Interplay Learning Job-Ready Certificate and industry-recognized
certifications like OSHA10 and EPA 608.
"As I strive to fulfill my son's vision and empower underserved
youth in our community, DBAKE's partnership with Interplay Learning
marks a pivotal moment in our journey," said Annamarie Baker, founder, DBAKE Foundation.
"With Interplay's innovative technology, we're not only modernizing
education; we're increasing access to careers that will unlock so
much potential in our community."
One standout feature of Interplay Learning's training is its
video game-like approach, making learning engaging and enjoyable
for participants. This innovative method resonates with today's
tech-savvy youth, facilitating their engagement with the material
and comprehension of complex trade skills.
Employ St. Louis will host
the inaugural class with R&R Marketplace in Dellwood, a
revitalized community hub. A job fair at the end of the program
will facilitate direct connections between learners and potential
employers, while DBAKE Foundation's deep industry connections to
major employers and union partners will ensure that graduates can
transition smoothly into structured registered apprenticeships and
employment opportunities.
"At Interplay, our goal has always been to equip individuals
with the tools for success in the trades," said Doug Donovan, CEO and founder, Interplay
Learning. "This partnership with the DBAKE Foundation highlights
our dedication to making a real impact in communities, bridging
gaps, and creating opportunities. Together, we're forging a future
where every aspiring tradesperson can thrive."
For more information about the DBAKE Foundation and how you can
donate, visit https://givebutter.com/2qP1s9 or email
abaker@dbake.org.
About the DBAKE Foundation
The DBAKE Foundation,
established by Annamarie Baker, is a
St. Louis-based non-profit
organization dedicated to advancing construction trades education
for underserved youth while honoring the memory of her late son,
Damion Baker. Through high-quality
training programs and strategic partnerships, the foundation aims
to empower young people to pursue fulfilling careers in the skilled
trades, thus fulfilling Damion's vision and legacy.
About Interplay Learning
Austin-based Interplay Learning is the
industry leader in immersive training solutions for the skilled
trades. Interplay's acclaimed SkillMill training platform enables
rapid upskilling and empowers new technicians to be job-ready
within weeks, not years. Featuring expert-led videos, hands-on 3D
simulations, knowledge checks, and personalized learning paths,
SkillMill is more scalable and engaging than traditional training.
Leveraging advanced technologies like AI and VR, Interplay is
reshaping the future of online skilled trades training, delivering
highly effective learning experiences that result in better careers
and better lives.
Recent accolades include Fast Company's 2024 Most Innovative
Companies in the World, AHR's 2024 Innovation Award, Forbes' 2023
America's Best Startup Employers, 2022 Inc. 5000 list, and 2022
Inc. Best in Business list. Visit www.interplaylearning.com to
learn more.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Heather Ripley
Ripley PR
(865) 977-1973
hripley@ripleypr.com
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SOURCE Interplay Learning