Tech-Career Newsletter – Pesach 2025
From the Desk of Takele Mekonen
Dear Friends and Partners,
The past year has been incredibly challenging in Israel, yet we remain hopeful for the swift return of all the hostages. We stand in solidarity with the families still awaiting the return of their loved ones held hostage by Hamas and mourn those who were murdered. Recently, after more than a decade in Hamas captivity, Avera Mengistu was finally released, and the Tech-Career community joins the Mengistu family in their joy and relief.
Despite the Iron Swords war, Tech-Career has remained committed to expanding its programs and creating real opportunities for young Ethiopian Israelis. Over the past year, we ran 12 professional courses, equipping 172 students with essential skills for the tech job market. Our In-Tech program trained 500 participants, guiding them through academic and professional training while connecting them to employment opportunities. Additionally, 28 graduates joined our prestigious internship program, gaining hands-on experience at leading startups and high-tech companies.
Since October 7, 2023, we have launched several initiatives to support Israeli society. In partnership with Wix, we developed a DevOps course for reservists balancing service with career growth and development. With Upscale Analytics, we offered five free Data courses for evacuees from the south and north, resulting in a 100% job placement rate. Expanding into Israel’s periphery, we opened a new branch of Tech-Career in Kiryat Yam with the local Young Adults Center, the Haifa-Boston Partnership, and the Israel Innovation Authority, training 17 young adults in DevNet. Our goal is to place them in high-quality tech jobs in northern Israel, reinforcing our commitment to creating real opportunities, even in times of crisis.
Tech-Career graduates continue to achieve high placement rates, reflecting both industry confidence and the quality of our training. We also continue to actively support our alumni with professional guidance throughout their careers.
Finally, we are thrilled to announce that we have received a building permit for the new Tech-Career campus! Construction will begin after Passover, with plans to open by the end of 2026.
On behalf of the Board of Directors and our dedicated team, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our donors and partners for your unwavering support. Together, we are strengthening the Ethiopian Israeli community and the high-tech industry, and we remain committed to building the next generation of professionals who will shape the future of Israel.
Wishing you and your families a happy and healthy Pesach and peaceful days ahead,
Takele Mekonen
Recruitment: The Numbers Speak for Themselves
Record demand for Tech-Career programs! Over the past year, more than 1,000 candidates expressed interest in our training courses, highlighting the growing need for quality pathways into high-tech. Key trends include soaring demand for networking and cybersecurity, a sharp increase in interest in QA, and a notable rise in applicants over age 30. We hosted 25 information sessions, connecting with a diverse group of candidates eager to enter the industry. To streamline and enhance the admissions process, we are now upgrading to advanced automated systems, ensuring a faster, more personalized experience. This innovation will improve applicant engagement and provide a superior, efficient pathway into high-tech careers.
Training Updates
In 2024, Tech-Career delivered 12 courses for 172 participants, while at any given time, 15% of our students and staff were on reserve duty.
DevOps Training for Reservists – In partnership with Wix
Tech-Career’s DevOps program for reservists trains those balancing military service and career growth. Supported by Wix’s DevSecOps team, the program embodies mutual responsibility—not just envisioning a better future but making it happen. By the fourth session, reality hit when two participants were called back to reserve duty. Our response? “Go safely and return safely—we’ll get you back on track.” This commitment defines the program, ensuring every participant receives professional and personal support and that no one is left behind.
Data Analysis for Evacuees – A Path to Renewal
Since the outbreak of the war, in partnership with Upscale Analytics, we have been offering data courses to evacuees from the south and north, driven by the belief that opportunity is the most powerful tool for resilience. Through Tech-Career, participants gain real opportunities for professional growth, rebuilding their confidence and employment prospects while creating a lasting impact that strengthens both individuals and communities. The results speak for themselves—100% of graduates have successfully launched their careers!
DevNet & Cybersecurity – Classes 58 & 60
Launched in early 2024, Class 58 took place in partnership with the Ministry of Defense. Led by Assaf Avraham, a Tech-Career graduate, this class demonstrated resilience and determination. Seventeen students, some joining straight from reserve duty, completed an intensive nine-month program, earning three industry-recognized certifications: CCNA, CCNP, and Fortinet. Beyond technical training, students gained hands-on experience with top companies:
BioCatch – Exposure to digital body language technology for fraud prevention, meetings with the COO and product managers, and networking with Tech-Career alumni employed at the company.
Cognyte – In-depth insights into IT & cybersecurity, a tour of an advanced cyber lab, and career guidance from recruitment managers.
Studies concluded on October 13, 2024, with a ceremony at IITC College, a long-time Tech-Career partner. Within three months, 13 graduates secured positions at leading companies, including IAI, Cognyte, OMC, SysLogics, IT Solutions, Elbit, Leidos, and Amazon!
Cybersecurity
Launched in July 2024 in partnership with CyberPro and the Innovation Authority, Class 62 consists of 25 students, including In-Tech graduates. More than 15% served in reserve duty during the war in the north and south. Upon their return, they received personalized support to ensure successful course completion.
This intensive program spans 870 hours of coursework, 1,600 hours of hands-on practice, and 250 hours of career preparation. Covering a comprehensive curriculum, including CCNA, Linux, Windows, Python, Branch Prevention & Network Security, PT, and CCSA, students will graduate with three industry-recognized certifications: CCNA, Linux, and CCSA.
Industry Exposure – During the course, students benefited from site tours of TSG, where they gained hands-on experience with advanced defense systems and a tour of SOC operations, Check Point, where they met with cybersecurity leaders, and CyberPro, where they experienced attack simulation training, plus an inspiring session with Gabi Ashkenazi. Students also volunteered with 2nd graders at Ma’apilim School, introducing them to technology through FIRST LEGO kits.
In March, the IDF Cyber Division presented a comprehensive overview of technological service return paths to our Cyber students and Tech-Career graduates. The presentation covered career progression opportunities, employment conditions, and professional training tracks. Approximately 65 students and graduates attended this pivotal session, aimed at illuminating potential technological career paths within the Israeli military.
We are thrilled to announce that two graduates have secured impressive positions at TSG and the Israel Tax Authority. Furthermore, another student was accepted into a 6-month internship at Cognyte, with the prospect of a full-time contract upon completion. The remaining students are actively engaged in the hiring processes across various companies, demonstrating the strong preparation and potential of the course.
QA for Women
In December 2024, we launched Class 65, our third women’s-only class, this time focusing on QA testing. Led by Shahar Stern, in collaboration with QualiTest and Nayax, this rigorously selected group of women from across Israel has embarked on an intensive journey through May 2025. Designed to balance career training with motherhood, the program is already showing success—some participants are in advanced hiring processes while still studying. Career development is a core focus, with time management workshops, LinkedIn training, and professional career guidance. Beyond technical training, this course cultivates a powerful support network. Even in these challenging times, consistent effort and collective encouragement pave the way for success!
DevNet & Cybersecurity
In December 2024, Class 67, comprising 19 students with a strong representation of 7 women, including In-Tech graduates, embarked on their journey into networking and cybersecurity. Led by Orit Sabhat, the course is held in partnership with the Ministry of Defense. So far, 100% of the students have successfully completed their CCNA certification and gained hands-on experience in IITC labs. The students began their volunteering experience at the Ma’apilim Elementary School, exposing 1st graders to programming and robotics using FIRST Lego kits. They are now preparing for their CCNP certification. The program will conclude in September, and graduates will be equipped with the skills to launch
DevNet – First Tech-Career Course at our Northern Branch
Launched in February 2024 in Kiryat Yam, Class 68 marks Tech-Career’s first course in Northern Israel—a milestone in expanding access to high-tech careers. In partnership with Kiryat Yam Young Adults Center, Haifa-Boston Partnership, and the Israel Innovation Authority, the course aims to develop local talent and strengthen the northern tech industry. 17 students from the Krayot, Karmiel, Afula, and Kfar Yona will train until December 2025, earning CCNA and CCNP certifications. Their journey began with workshops like “Learning How to Learn” with Asmo Mula (Class 62 alumna) and a LinkedIn masterclass with Orit Zanba. Students also visited the Tech-Career campus in Lod, where they met CEO Takele Mekonen and the Tech-Career team.
In-Tech
In December 2024, In-Tech reached an incredible milestone—500 graduates! Led by Nati Rothstein, an engineer with experience in high-tech and social ventures, the program provides career guidance and professional training for participants aged 21-40.
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Cohort 4 – Nationwide Impact
Launched in September 2024, 155 participants across 10 cities—from Ashkelon and Kiryat Gat in the south to Yokneam and Hadera in the north—began their journey with In-Tech. The program is supported by local municipalities, the Ministry of Labor, Bank Hapoalim, and Check Point, with hands-on workshops and career training in partnership with top tech companies like OurCrowd, Applied Materials, and Fiverr.
Adapting to Wartime Challenges
In response to the war, In-Tech expanded to reach evacuees and returning reservists, opening new cohorts in Ashkelon and Yokneam. Despite the disruptions, students showed incredible resilience and perseverance.
Study Fair & Municipal Pilot
A nationwide fair in November 2024 at Check Point connected 120 participants with top academic institutions and training programs. Meanwhile, a new pilot in Rishon LeZion, with city-backed funding, achieved a 100% completion rate, setting a model for future cohorts.
Thriving Alumni Community
With 500 alumni and growing, 68% of In-Tech graduates from the first three cohorts have pursued high-tech studies, and many have already secured jobs. In-Tech also launched dedicated mentoring initiatives, including career coaching, job search support, and English skills development with English B’Yachad and MentMe.
In-Tech continues to transform lives, opening doors to high-tech careers.
Successful Industry Placements
Despite economic slowdowns due to the war, our graduates continue to secure high-tech jobs. Recent placement data speaks for itself:
These numbers highlight not only the quality of our training but also the rising demand for Tech-Career graduates. We’re proud to see our alumni making their mark in the industry!
Tech-Career’s High-Tech Internship Program
Tech-Career’s new internship program was awarded the Israel Innovation Authority’s competitive grant for hands-on training programs. This six-month internship provides graduates in full-stack development, data analysis, cybersecurity, automation, and DevOps with practical experience at leading high-tech companies, bridging the gap between training and employment. Led by Moriah Zelka, whose background combines social impact and legal expertise, the program is designed to equip graduates with real-world experience and essential professional skills. Participants, Tech-Career alumni, and university graduates in tech fields benefit from a full support system—personal mentoring, professional workshops, enrichment activities, soft skills training, and peer collaboration. The goal is to ensure their smooth transition into the Israeli tech sector. Industry partners include leading companies such as Productive, Wix, Check Point, BioCatch, iMD-soft, Sony, BigID, Folio, and Taboola. Currently, 30 interns are enrolled in the first two cohorts, with 10 already securing job offers! This program serves as a career springboard, and we continue to expand industry partnerships to create more opportunities for future participants.