From Front Desk to IT Career: How Christina Built a Future in Technology
When Christina first came to Summit Academy OIC, she wasn’t planning to become a student.
At the time, she was working temporary and overnight jobs while trying to determine her next step professionally. While working at Summit’s front desk through a short-term assignment, she found herself drawn to the IT training she was describing to prospective students every day.
“I spoke on the IT training so much,” Christina shared. “It’s no cost to students. I figured I could sacrifice a little bit of time so I could do it.”
Enrolling meant stepping away from work to focus on school full time while balancing family responsibilities and the demands of intensive training.
One of the biggest lessons she gained at Summit was the importance of accountability and consistency.
“Summit’s trying to prepare you for work readiness, so I had to realize attendance matters,” she said.
Today, Christina works in tech concierge support within assisted living communities, combining her passion for technology with her desire to help others.
Finishing the Fiscal Year Strong
This year, Summit has experienced growing demand across all training pathways, with more students than ever pursuing careers in high-demand industries.
While tuition remains free for students, the true cost of training includes industry equipment, certifications, career readiness support, and wraparound services that help students persist through graduation and into employment.
As the fiscal year comes to a close, Summit is working to ensure every student is ready to pursue a career pathway has the opportunity to do so.
Together, supporters are investing not only in workforce training, but in long-term economic mobility for individuals, families, and communities across Minnesota.
Partnership in Action
We are grateful to the Constellation Fund for their continued investment in Summit Academy OIC and the futures of the students we serve. Through a recent grant, The Constellation Fund recognized the powerful impact workforce training can have on individuals, families, and our broader community. Their analysis found that every dollar invested in Summit generates an estimated $8.92 in economic and social return through increased earnings, educational advancement, and long-term opportunity for graduates.
Summit’s impact was also highlighted during the Constellation Fund’s recent gala, where Vice President of Workforce Partnerships, Alex Tittle, shared his personal journey as a powerful reminder that investments in Summit are not only transforming students’ lives today, but also creating leaders, advocates, and strong communities for years to come.
You're Invited!
Join Summit Academy OIC on Wednesday, August 5 for the Electric Pathways Block Party.
This community celebration will spotlight Summit’s Electrician training through live demonstrations, food trucks, music, sweet treats, and opportunities to connect with students, instructors, supporters, and community members.
We hope to see you there!
RSVP Today
Join Us in Expanding Opportunity
Together, we can open the door to even more life-changing opportunities:
- Give. Your donation provides students with tuition-free career training that leads to family-sustaining employment.
- Hire. Connect Summit graduates with meaningful career opportunities that strengthen your workforce.
- Volunteer. Share your experience through mock interviews, classroom visits, or student mentorship.
Every act of support helps create a thriving community where everyone has the chance to succeed.
