Development of People

UI is proud to support organizations throughout our service territory working today to provide individuals with the skills and education they need for better lives tomorrow.  We are especially interested in programs focused on exposing young people to a variety of careers; programs promoting the study of math and science; programs providing guidance on financial literacy and “life skills;” and programs which affect economic outcomes for disadvantaged youth.  Organizations and programs we believe are helping to address the socio-economic needs of Connecticut’s current and future residents include:

·         The Workplace’s Bridgeport Manufacturing Academy provides out-of-school youth and under/unemployed young adults with manufacturing technology skills so that Bridgeport’s manufacturers have a sufficient skilled, local workforce to draw from, while at the same time promoting the expansion and recruitment of manufacturing companies in Bridgeport.

·         The Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) works to increase economic independence of women by offering Small Business and Professional Development Training-specifically, small business and micro-enterprise training, career assistance, networking, and access to applicable resources.

·         Training, Education and Manpower (TEAM) in Derby provides employment and job shadowing opportunities to 14-18 year-olds in the Valley through its Project Explore.  The goal of the program is to prevent dropouts, provide leadership skill development, teach job search and job retention skills, and assist with career path identification.

·         In New Haven, the Connecticut State Scholars program encourages students who have the potential for academic success to take more challenging courses in high school.  Beyond the coursework tutoring, job training, internships and special business presentations work hand-in-hand to prepare these students for post-high school study and work.

·         Junior Achievement has made an impact on more than 30 million young people by educating and inspiring them to value free enterprise, business, financial literacy and economics to improve the quality of their lives.  UI has supported and participated in Junior Achievement classes in Shelton, Milford, Trumbull and Bridgeport.