Upskilling Program: Workforce Readiness Tutoring

Program Overview

The Upskilling Program was launched in 2025 to address a critical barrier faced by many BTI participants: low academic readiness in math and reading that prevents entry into workforce training programs such as BTI's Laboratory Associate Program. This three-week tutoring program provides individualized support in math, reading, and comprehension, helping adult learners achieve the required academic benchmarks to enroll in technical training, pursue their GED, and advance toward family-sustaining employment. The Upskilling Literacy Program will serve underemployed and unemployed adults residing in Baltimore City and surrounding counties, with a priority focus on individuals from low- to moderate-income households. Many participants face systemic barriers such as limited access to quality education, housing instability, or childcare challenges, which have prevented them from meeting the requirements to enter workforce training programs like BTI's Laboratory Associates Program.

Enrollment in BTI requires applicants to score at least an 8th-grade level in reading and a 5th-grade level in math on the TABE test. However, a significant number of interested individuals fall just below these thresholds. The Upskilling program is designed specifically for this population—those who are motivated to pursue careers in the life sciences but need targeted tutoring to bridge academic gaps.

BTI's typical student population is approximately 95% Black women, with ages ranging widely, but the majority fall between 25 and 35 years old. Many are first-generation career seekers aiming to create stability for their families and break cycles of poverty. The program will provide small-group and one-on-one tutoring in reading and math, along with access to a dedicated computer lab, online learning tools, and volunteer tutors. Supportive services such as bus tokens and case management will be offered to address common barriers to participation. The program will also be open to adults who are not solely interested in BTI's workforce training, expanding access to tutoring for community members who may use the program to improve literacy and numeracy skills for other career or educational pathways.

Cost Info