Annual Report
Fostering New Paths and Growth
By the Numbers
Programmatic Work
BridgeYear’s Technology Solution
BridgeYear's Annual Conference
Next Up at BridgeYear
Financials
By the Numbers
Programmatic Work
Supporting Educators for Student Success
Next-Gen Career Access Tool
Next Up at BridgeYear
Financials
A Letter From the Executive Director
Dear BridgeYear Community,
BridgeYear is ever-evolving with the needs of our students and community. As we continue to prepare students for economic stability through careers and educational pathways that do not require a four-year degree, we remain aware of the shifting landscape of education in Houston and beyond. Through partnership and collaboration, BridgeYear found innovative ways to reach and make an impact on the students we serve this year. Some highlights from this year include:
- Increasing corporate partnerships through industry-aligned Career Test Drive® simulations, offering students more hands-on experiences and insights into potential career paths. Next year holds even more promise as BridgeYear plans to double the number of corporate partners for our Career Test Drive® Program.
- Launching a large-scale social media campaign for MorePathways, increasing our unique online visitors by over 2,000%.
- Expanding the Certification Cohort Program, now in its second year, helping students gain access to free training that enables them to receive a workforce certification that will prepare them for employment opportunities.
- Hosting the 4th Annual Postsecondary Pathways Conference to connect educators to local training programs for their students and inform them about the regional economy, highlighting in-demand and well-paying, middle-skill careers.
As BridgeYear continues to evolve and broaden our reach in the community, we believe it is time to take the next step in growth and scale. We are excited to announce the launch of BridgeYear’s 3-year strategic plan, an ambitious undertaking to further develop and scale BridgeYear’s programs. This strategic plan, crafted through a comprehensive process involving students, community stakeholders, and BridgeYear staff and board members, aims to amplify our impact on Houston students by ensuring they have access to opportunities for economic mobility, regardless of their chosen educational path.
We are enthusiastic about the changes that lie ahead and are grateful for your continued support. Together, we can create brighter futures for Houston’s next generation. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us.
With gratitude,
Victoria Chen
Co-Founder & Executive Director
BridgeYear
By the Numbers
Our Theory of Change
BridgeYear’s programs empower students to achieve economic mobility by providing them with:
- Belief in their potential and the awareness that well-paying careers exist without the need for a four-year degree
- Knowledge of how to pursue and attain these careers
- Access to the training and educational programs essential for launching a successful career
By partnering with employers, career education programs, and community colleges, we connect students to pathways requiring less than a four-year degree, ensuring that their socioeconomic background doesn’t stand in the way of their financial goals.
By the Numbers
Students Served Since 2016
BridgeYear is driven by the belief that every student deserves a clear pathway to stable employment upon high school graduation, no matter their background or socioeconomic status. Since our founding in 2016, our journey has paralleled the evolving landscape of our regional economy, serving over 54,000 students.
Today, we stand as Houston’s leading nonprofit dedicated to creating new opportunities for students in underserved communities, empowering them to explore and pursue fulfilling careers that don’t require a four-year degree.
Who We Serve
BridgeYear aims to work with underserved youth in the Greater Houston area to help them reach opportunities for economic mobility after high school graduation.
of our students are economically disadvantaged
of our students identify as Black or Hispanic/Latino
of schools served are considered Title 1 schools
Who We Serve
BridgeYear aims to work with underserved youth in the Greater Houston area to help them reach opportunities of economic mobility after high school graduation.
of our students are economically disadvantaged
of our students identify as Black or Hispanic/Latino
of schools served are considered Title 1 schools
Students Served By Program
BridgeYear’s programs are designed to help students explore and navigate career pathways, providing them with the tools and experiences necessary to make informed decisions about their futures. Our approach is divided into two main components: Career Exploration and Career Navigation.
Career Exploration exposes middle and high school students to various career options through hands-on experiences so they can build their career identities and future plans. Career Navigation offers graduating high school seniors the guidance and support needed to pursue these pathways, ensuring students are well-informed and prepared to enter short-term training programs and achieve career success.
Students Reached in 2023-2024
This school year, BridgeYear served 12,675 students! Engage with our map below to see which schools held a BridgeYear Career Test Drive® Fair.
Programmatic Work
Career Exploration
BridgeYear’s Career Test Drive® Fair
BridgeYear reached over 11,300 students through BridgeYear’s Career Test Drive® (CTD) Fair. Transforming school gymnasiums into experimental stations, the CTD Fair provides students with an enriching real-world experience as they engage in career simulations informed by leading corporate entities. This school year, the Career Exploration team introduced three new careers – Manufacturing Technician (sponsored by Accelerated Solutions Group), Refinery Operator (sponsored by Phillips 66), and Surgical Technologist (sponsored by Memorial Hermann Health System).
This exposure broadens students’ horizons and sparks interest in career paths not typically covered in the K-12 curriculum, encouraging them to explore diverse opportunities post-high school. Next year, we are excited to introduce two new CTD simulations: Utility Pipefitter (sponsored by CenterPoint Energy) and Biological Technician (sponsored by Texas Medical Center).
Nearly half (46%) of Gen Z K-12 students do not believe they have engaging classroom experiences, but the CTD Fair addresses the needs of students who often find their schoolwork less interesting or aligned with their talents. By providing hands-on, real-world connections to their learning, the CTD Fair helps to enhance student engagement in their educational experience.
BridgeYear’s Career Test Drive® Fair
BridgeYear reached over 11,300 students through BridgeYear’s Career Test Drive® (CTD) Fair. Transforming school gymnasiums into experimental stations, the CTD Fair provides students with an enriching real-world experience as they engage in career simulations informed by leading corporate entities. This school year, the Career Exploration team introduced three new careers – Manufacturing Technician (sponsored by Accelerated Solutions Group), Refinery Operator (sponsored by Phillips 66), and Surgical Technologist (sponsored by Memorial Hermann Health System).
This exposure broadens students’ horizons and sparks interest in career paths not typically covered in the K-12 curriculum, encouraging them to explore diverse opportunities post-high school. Next year, we are excited to introduce two new CTD simulations: Utility Pipefitter (sponsored by CenterPoint Energy) and Biological Technician (sponsored by Texas Medical Center).
Nearly half (46%) of Gen Z K-12 students do not believe they have engaging classroom experiences, but the CTD Fair addresses the needs of students who often find their schoolwork less interesting or aligned with their talents. By providing hands-on, real-world connections to their learning, the CTD Fair helps to enhance student engagement in their educational experience.
67%
of students said they were interested in pursuing one or more of the careers presented
76%
of students believe one or more of the presented careers will allow them to reach financial stability
94%
of students feel they have a better understanding of the specific career training requirements from the careers explored during the CTD Fair
BridgeYear's Corporate Partners
Career Navigation
Career Accelerators
Career Accelerators provide students with invaluable opportunities to hone essential soft skills through resume writing sessions, professional communication workshops, and mock interviews. This year’s events were hosted at The Friedkin Group, Honeywell, Memorial Hermann Health System, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas Houston Branch, with over 100 industry professional volunteers.
Over 170 students participated, representing a diverse group from five different school districts including Houston ISD, Spring Branch ISD, KIPP Texas–Houston, Harmony Public Schools, and YES Prep Public Schools. These students gained first-hand exposure to real-world work environments and cultivated confidence in their post-high school career prospects.
This initiative addresses a crucial need: 74% of Gen Z youth seek skills that will prepare them for in-demand jobs, while 81% of employers prioritize skills over degrees when hiring. Career Accelerators equip students with essential soft skills and provide valuable mentorship and networking opportunities. This alignment with the evolving job market enhances students’ readiness for professional success and supports their career development goals.
92%
of students feel more confident about writing a professional email after attending the Professional Communications Workshop
93%
of students said the Resume Building Workshop provided them the resources needed to create/edit their resume today
94%
of students said that because of the Interview Skills Workshop, they better understand how to structure their response to an interview question
Workforce Development Week
BridgeYear, in partnership with OneGoal-Houston, expanded its commitment to supporting Aldine ISD. This school year, our reach extended from Carver High School to include three additional high schools in Aldine ISD: Davis High School, MacArthur High School, Aldine High School, and Carver High School. Through tailored classroom sessions, over 200 high school seniors received comprehensive guidance on pursuing non-four-year pathways aligned with their individual aspirations.
Students actively interfaced with Houston’s diverse workforce training providers and leveraged MorePathways®, accessing training opportunities directly from their devices.
This initiative addresses a significant gap in career guidance: fewer than one in four high school students have had extensive conversations about non-college pathways like apprenticeships and internships (23%) or careers that don’t require a degree (19%). By providing direct access to viable non-degree pathways and practical career information, this program helps students navigate their post-high school options with confidence and make informed decisions about their futures.
Workforce Development Week
BridgeYear, in partnership with OneGoal-Houston, expanded its commitment to supporting Aldine ISD. This school year, our reach extended from Carver High School to include three additional high schools in Aldine ISD: Davis High School, MacArthur High School, Aldine High School, and Carver High School. Through tailored classroom sessions, over 200 high school seniors received comprehensive guidance on pursuing non-four-year pathways aligned with their individual aspirations.
Students actively interfaced with Houston’s diverse workforce training providers and leveraged MorePathways®, accessing training opportunities directly from their devices.
This initiative addresses a significant gap in career guidance: fewer than one in four high school students have had extensive conversations about non-college pathways like apprenticeships and internships (23%) or careers that don’t require a degree (19%). By providing direct access to viable non-degree pathways and practical career information, this program helps students navigate their post-high school options with confidence and make informed decisions about their futures.
Students showed significant improvements during Workforce Development Week:
Pre vs. Post
33% → 87%
of students know where to start researching and applying for short-term workforce training after high school
Pre vs. Post
70% → 93%
of students recognize that training programs can help them get trained in a skill and start working a few months after high school
Pre vs. Post
67% → 85%
of students expressed that if they choose to do short-term workforce training, they could work in a career that could provide for themselves and their family
Certification Cohort Program
Students are provided with a supportive, peer-based community to pursue their career aspirations immediately after high school through the Certification Cohort Program. This tuition-free initiative not only prepares students for workforce certification but also equips them with the skills needed for economic stability and workforce readiness through mentorship, collaboration, and real-world application. This year’s Certification Cohort Program was offered in partnership with Texas Technical Trade School (TTT) and Memorial Assistance Ministries (MAM).
In the Houston region, nearly 40,000 students each year do not pursue higher education within a year of graduating, and about 1 in 10 of youth aged 16 to 19 are disconnected from both work and education. With limited economic mobility—where a Houstonian born into a low-income family typically earns just $33,000 by age 35—this program is vital in offering immediate pathways to well-paying careers and economic independence.
Meet Our Cohort Alumni
Beatriz’s Path to Patient Care: From Training to Her Dream CNA Role
Beatriz, a recent graduate of BridgeYear’s CNA Training Cohort in partnership with MAM, completed her five-week program in August 2024. Thanks to the free training and support she received, Beatriz is eager to begin her career in patient care at a hospital or clinic, making a difference as a Certified Nursing Assistant.
Carlos' Journey: Recently Employed with Big Dreams Ahead
Carlos, a recent graduate of BridgeYear’s CNA Training Cohort in partnership with MAM, is deeply grateful for this life-changing opportunity. After completing his training, Carlos is now employed at Memorial Hermann and is determined to continue his education, with aspirations to one day become a doctor.
Ismael’s Success Story: A Bright Future in the Electrical Field
Ismael, a proud graduate of BridgeYear’s Electrician Training Program offered through Texas Technical Trade (TTT) School, believes the program was well worth the effort. With the support of BridgeYear and TTT School, he’s looking forward to landing a job and beginning a fulfilling career as an electrician.
Meet Our Cohort Alumni
Beatriz’s Path to Patient Care: From Training to Her Dream CNA Role
Beatriz, a recent graduate of BridgeYear’s CNA Training Cohort in partnership with MAM, completed her five-week program in August 2024. Thanks to the free training and support she received, Beatriz is eager to begin her career in patient care at a hospital or clinic, making a difference as a Certified Nursing Assistant.
Carlos' Journey: Recently Employed with Big Dreams Ahead
Carlos, a recent graduate of BridgeYear’s CNA Training Cohort in partnership with MAM, is deeply grateful for this life-changing opportunity. After completing his training, Carlos is now employed at Memorial Hermann and is determined to continue his education, with aspirations to one day become a doctor.
Ismael’s Success Story: A Bright Future in the Electrical Field
Ismael, a proud graduate of BridgeYear’s Electrician Training Program offered through Texas Technical Trade (TTT) School, believes the program was well worth the effort. With the support of BridgeYear and TTT School, he’s looking forward to landing a job and beginning a fulfilling career as an electrician.
BridgeYear’s Technology Solution
MorePathways®
BridgeYear developed MorePathways® to provide a centralized, user-friendly platform that showcases vetted Houston workforce training programs. The platform alleviates the many challenges students previously faced when searching for affordable and effective workforce training programs.
This year, BridgeYear’s MorePathways® expanded significantly, showcasing our dedication to offering diverse and viable career opportunities for youth. The website now features 325 short-term training programs—a 14% increase from the previous year—spanning industries from health services to manufacturing, ensuring students find trainings that align with their interests and career goals.
Additionally, BridgeYear launched a three-month targeted digital marketing campaign, resulting in a 2067% increase in unique site visits. This campaign was intentionally designed to reach young people aged 16-24 in underserved Houston zip codes. By focusing on these communities, we brought over 21,400 unique visitors—primarily from our target demographics—to MorePathways®, connecting them to vital information and resources for pursuing career paths that require less than a four-year degree.
87% of non-college youth (those neither enrolled nor graduated from college) now turn to the internet for information on post-high school options. MorePathways® offers a vital resource for Houston’s underserved youth leveraging a medium they know best.
In the 2023-2024 school year, MorePathways® recorded:
25,000+
unique visitors
1,200+
views of training sessions
1,675
clicks on “Apply” buttons
Supporting Educators for Student Success
Postsecondary
Pathways Conference
BridgeYear celebrated its 4th Annual Postsecondary Pathways Conference (PPC), the only event of its kind in Houston dedicated to equipping educators and postsecondary professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to better support their students.
Hosted at TXRX Labs in partnership with UpSkill Houston, an employer-led initiative of the Greater Houston Partnership, the conference offered a comprehensive look into the Houston area’s educational landscape and its alignment with workforce demands. Over 160 educators engaged in practical skill-building sessions to learn about relevant postsecondary credentials and short-term training programs.
The conference plays a critical role in helping educators stay up-to-date about existing and emerging postsecondary credentials valued by Houston’s workforce, as many students are unaware of well-paying opportunities beyond the traditional four-year degree. By addressing the local economy’s workforce challenges and highlighting in-demand careers, the event empowers educators to help students make informed choices that lead to long-term economic stability.
84%
of participants agreed they have a network of short-term training providers they can connect their students to after PPC 2024
94%
of participants agreed they have a stronger understanding of existing and emerging pathways into the workforce after attending PPC 2024
100%
of participants reported that they would recommend PPC to their colleagues
PPC 2024 Breakout Sessions
Decoding the Texas Jobs Market
A session on the latest data from the regional job market, offering key insights into emerging trends and actionable strategies for securing future well-paying careers.
Presented by Mick Normington, Labor Economist & Business Professor at Lee College
Postsecondary Purpose and Success
An interactive session where participants explored and experienced strategies to cultivate their own sense of purpose, while also learning how to guide students in discovering theirs.
Presented by Jabali Sawicki, Compass Director at nXu Education
Funding Postsecondary Opportunities
A session that explored effective strategies for financing postsecondary education, highlighting opportunities to secure funding that aligns with long-term career goals.
Presented by Allie Danziger (Senior VP & General Manager) and Kim McNealy (Senior VP & General Manager of Student Funding) from Ascent
A Guided Tour of
TXRX Labs
A guided tour of the TXRX Labs maker hub, where participants learned about the available resources and opportunities that support innovative projects and skill development.
Presented by Michael Gutierrez (Workforce Director) and Joseph Miller (Education Director) from TXRX Labs
Next Up at BridgeYear
REIMAGINING THE EDUCATION-TO-WORKFORCE PATHWAY
After serving students for eight years, BridgeYear is on a mission to revolutionize the high school to workforce pathway through high-quality, transformative career exposure, certification pathways, and open access to our innovative technology solution, MorePathways®.
By 2030, BridgeYear will expose 350,000 Houston youth to careers that will launch them into the Houston workforce with a vision for their future, and an income that begins with a living wage.
1
Broaden BridgeYear’s reach in the Houston community such that more students, educators, and parents are informed about high-quality non-four-year pathways.
2
Break down barriers to entry for youth in Houston’s existing workforce development system to allow for a more seamless transition from high school graduation to a high-quality skills training program.
3
Leverage the full potential of MorePathways® to be an all-encompassing and dynamic tool for students and adults to find and connect to workforce development programs.
4
Strengthen BridgeYear’s infrastructure
by attracting, retaining, and developing top talent, diversifying and growing our revenues, and investing in technology.
Financials
OPERATIONAL EXPENSES BREAKDOWN
as of June 30, 2024
