New Americans Finding Success through WashU CAPS Empower Program
St. Louis Mosaic Project hosts professional development sessions through program
When Washington University (WashU) Continuing & Professional Studies (CAPS) launched Empower in 2024, the goal was to help new Americans in the St. Louis region overcome barriers that can make it difficult to translate their education, experience and abilities into career opportunities in the U.S.
The free, 32-week program combines English language development with workforce training, professional development and career support. Empower students can pursue credentials in fields including healthcare, Geographic Information Systems, data analytics and project management.
“Empower was created to help new Americans build on the education, experience and skills they already bring with them,” said Katie Blackburn Brown, director of English Language programs for WashU CAPS. “By bringing English language development, professional credentials and individualized support together, the program helps students navigate the U.S. workplace and take meaningful steps toward their professional goals.”
The St. Louis Mosaic Project, a regional initiative of St. Louis Economic Development Partnership and World Trade Center St. Louis that helps retain the region’s global talent pool, provides professional develop sessions for students going through the program.
“Programs like Empower are essential to helping foreign-born residents build a life and future in St. Louis,” said Suzanne Sierra, executive director of the Mosaic Project. “These students come ready to work, contribute and succeed, and Empower gives them the language skills, professional development and understanding of the U.S. workplace that can open the door to meaningful employment and long-term success.”
Although only two years old, the program has already helped students succeed in new fields. Participants have moved into new professional opportunities through the WashU Medical Assistant Apprenticeship, WashU Sleep Medicine and Sentio Biosciences.
To learn more about the Empower program, click here.