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Empowering Careers: The SAS and NPower Collaboration

In an era where technology drives economic prosperity, the challenges faced by under-resourced communities in accessing tech careers cannot be overstated. Recognizing this, SAS, a global leader in data analytics and AI, partnered with NPower, a nonprofit organization committed to creating pathways to economic success. Together, they are transforming how data can be utilized to improve workforce development programs and enhance opportunities in tech fields.

The Need for Change

For individuals from underprivileged backgrounds, accessing technology jobs often comes with numerous barriers, including inadequate training, fragmented information, and lack of resources. NPower addresses these challenges by offering free technology training and industry-recognized credentials to military-connected individuals, young adults, and women. However, as the organization expanded its operations nationwide, managing an increasingly complex data environment became a significant hurdle.

NPower’s data was diverse – spanning thousands of datasets across multiple regions, each with varying formats and reporting standards. This made it difficult to conduct comprehensive analyses that could inform decision-making and improve program effectiveness. Their reliance on fragmented data hindered their ability to assess student pathways from enrollment through to job placement effectively.

The Role of SAS in Bridging the Gap

Understanding the power of data, SAS stepped in through itsData for Good program, bringing its analytics expertise to consolidate and analyze the data from NPower’s regional operations. By standardizing and cleaning this vast array of information, SAS enabled NPower to gain a clearer, holistic view of its students' experiences.

The collaboration involved creating a unified data structure, which allowed NPower to track student pathways from training to employment more accurately. This was instrumental in guiding resource allocation and tailoring programs to better serve their community. As Ashley Benjamin, a NPower alum and Director of Data Operations, stated, “This collaboration with SAS gives us a clearer, more comprehensive view of our students' experiences so we can tailor programs, allocate resources more effectively, and ultimately help more people launch sustainable tech careers.”

Unlocking Insights Through Advanced Analytics

Utilizing SAS® Visual Analytics on SAS® Viya®, the teams developed an interactive dashboard facilitating the exploration of trends, gaps, and opportunities within NPower’s programs. This visual tool empowers decision-makers to address critical queries about program effectiveness and identify what additional services, like transportation or childcare, could expedite student success.

Data visualization enhances not only the understanding of program outcomes but also highlights regional trends that may lead to more effective interventions. According to Cat Briggs, SAS Systems Engineer involved in the project, “Standardizing data across regions was critical. Without a consistent approach, differences in data collection can skew results.” With this unified data, NPower can accurately allocate resources where they are needed most.

Commitments to Ethical Data Use

Throughout the project, ethical considerations remained at the forefront of SAS’s approach. The emphasis was on creating human-centered analytics that promote inclusivity and transparency while protecting individual privacy. Eric Yu, SAS Principal Solutions Architect, emphasized that aligning analytics with ethical principles is about ensuring the insights serve the populations NPower supports without compromising their dignity.

To solidify the impact of this project, the SAS team produced a comprehensive analysis plan, documenting methodologies and models utilized. Such documentation enables NPower to maintain independent oversight and build upon insights in various platforms in the future.

The Broader Implications

This collaboration between SAS and NPower serves as a beacon for how advanced analytics can be leveraged to create social good when applied responsibly and thoughtfully. As part of the larger Data for Good initiative, this project not only highlights the measurable impacts that data-driven decision-making can foster but also sets a precedent for other organizations striving to make a difference. With the power to transform lives, initiatives like these represent the potential of data to dispel barriers and empower future generations.

For more information on SAS’s Data for Good program and their innovative approaches in helping communities thrive through advanced analytics, visit their official website.