The Latino community in Philadelphia will soon have access to a new workforce development initiative aimed at connecting residents with high-demand technical jobs and better wages. 

Danny Cortés, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Esperanza, explained that Esperanza  Tec Centro Philadelphia is designed for low-income or unemployed individuals, with the goal of preparing them for careers that offer economic stability and growth opportunities: 
“The program is focused on low-income or unemployed individuals and prepares them for technical jobs that offer what we consider a living wage—that is, jobs that allow individuals to support a family,” Cortés stated. 

Responding to the need for better wages 

For years, many workforce programs in the region have connected workers with jobs paying between $10 and $15 per hour—wages that do not always cover the cost of living. 

Cortés noted that this reality was key in the decision to bring thise programming to Philadelphia, as an affiliate of a larger Tec Centro network that has sites throughout Pennsylvania: 
“Those jobs don’t allow people to live comfortably. In many cases, individuals need more than one job to make ends meet,” he explained. “We knew we had to find another way to provide opportunities and help our community gain skills that allow them to pursue better wages.” 

The program focuses on what are known as “high-demand trades,” driven by recent investments in sectors such as shipbuilding, warehousing, and the development of the Port of Philadelphia—industries that require many skilled workers. 

Hands-on training for the jobs of the future 

The Esperanza Tec Centro Philadelphia training program will take participants six months to complete, with approximately 400 hours of instruction combining classroom learning and hands-on experience. 

Training areas include welding, HVAC system maintenance and repair, plumbing, and facilities maintenance skills aligned with current labor market needs: 
“We are creating simulation spaces where participants can work with their hands and not just learn theory,” Cortés explained. 

One of the most notable aspects of the program is that it will be completely free to eligible participants who are accepted, removing one of the main barriers to participation. 

“We know that many people in our community already face significant financial burdens. Offering this program at no cost is key so they can commit to and complete it,” he added. 

Open access and industry-recognized certifications 

The program is open to individuals aged 18 and older. Applicants must have basic reading and writing skills, and a basic level of English is recommended. Additionally, English as a Second Language (courses and GED preparation will be offered for those who need additional support. 

Upon completion, participants will earn industry-recognized certifications through a partnership with Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, enabling them to access better job opportunities. 

“These certifications have real value in the market and help participants pursue higher-paying jobs,” Cortés said. 

The program is scheduled to begin in July and will have limited capacity for 48 participants. So far, more than 100 people have expressed interest. 

A vision for the community’s future 

In the long term, Esperanza aims to expand this initiative and continue creating opportunities for the community. 

“Our commitment is to create opportunities, open doors, and build pathways so our community can move toward a better future,” Cortés concluded. 

Applications are now open.