Helen Young Hayes named CTA talent champion of the year

Meet the people who are leading the way for Colorado tech

ColoradoBiz Staff //February 3, 2021//

Helen Young Hayes named CTA talent champion of the year

Meet the people who are leading the way for Colorado tech

ColoradoBiz Staff //February 3, 2021//

The Colorado Technology Association has named Helen Young Hayes its APEX Awards Talent Champion of the Year. Hayes, who founded Activate Workforce Solutions to create onramps to economic success, was recognized for supporting Colorado’s technology workforce.

In 2020, Helen launched ActivateIT Powered by Per Scholas, a tuition-free technology training and professional development program to create equitable paths in IT for individuals seeking careers and employers seeking talent. The program offers students the ability to earn industry- recognized credentials for in-demand technology roles with growth potential. Once placed into a full-time career, ActivateIT graduates receive one-on-one professional development coaching for six months. In its first five years, ActivateIT will provide training and post-placement coaching to 500 individuals.

“This award recognizes someone who builds and strengthens the technology talent pipeline by leading and supporting initiatives to construct and ensure a strong, diverse local pipeline of tech workers in the state,” said Frannie Matthews, President and CEO at Colorado Technology Association. “Helen is doing amazing things for the Colorado tech community and the work she is doing now will have lasting impacts on our industry far into the future.”

In addition to preparing individuals for IT careers with growth potential, ActivateIT also provides life skills coaching to enhance professional success. ActivateIT graduates are employed by leading companies like Denver Health, FirstBank and Arrow Electronics, becoming a reliable talent resource for in-demand roles. The average annual income of students entering the program is $15,000 and after placement, average annual incomes increase by over 160%.

“This isn’t just about helping our program participants gain a new skill, we really want to equip them with the tools they need to achieve economic mobility and realize their full potential,” said Hayes. “I’m thrilled that the CTA is honoring our efforts to create opportunity and prosperity for more Coloradans.”

This year’s APEX Awards are a week-long digital celebration of the leaders and companies elevating Colorado tech to new heights.

Since 2001, CTA has hosted this prestigious event to bring together the community and celebrate the exceptional people, companies and accomplishments of the year. In the tradition of years past, CTA recognized award winners who are leading the way for Colorado tech. Winners are selected by a panel of community judges.