Cognosante Expands Unique University Partnership to Include Women’s Colleges

Cognosante today announced the launch of its Women in STEM Alliance, a university partnership offering students technology and career readiness skills, preparing them for careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. The women-focused professional development program expands upon Cognosante’s successful Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Alliance and kicks off with targeted partnerships with Sweet Briar College and Hollins University in Virginia.

“Proactively addressing gender inequity in the workforce is essential to enhancing diversity within the federal government contracting industry. The women’s colleges we partnered with share our commitment to eliminating gender bias through meaningful opportunities and developing the next generation of leaders,” stated Jennifer Bailey , Cognosante’s Chief Administration Officer. “I’m excited for this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to community and collaboration to solve some of society’s most pressing challenges.”

Like Cognosante’s HBCU Partner Alliance, the Women in STEM Alliance builds upon the existing pillars of Cognosante’s University Programs platform: a 10-week paid Summer College Analyst Program, which assigns students with managers and departments aligned to their academic goals; a semester-long, paid Scholars Program, in which students can earn college credits while working full-time at a Cognosante office; and the Cognosante Campus Connection, a series of on-campus seminars, speaking engagements, and mentoring. As part of the program, Cognosante customizes aspects of the experience to address known challenges for women in the workforce, specifically securing opportunities, gaining access, and developing leadership skills.

“This immersive program provides hands-on experience to accelerate the start of a STEM career. It also gives students with non-technical aspirations the chance to work in the tech industry and develop the skills needed for a career in business, strategy, or operations,” added Jackie Ackerman, Cognosante’s Vice President of Data Science. “We are excited to provide Sweet Briar and Hollins students with an opportunity to develop highly applicable skills and expand their professional network.”

Cognosante University Programs operate year-round and are available to students entering their Junior and Senior year of college. Click here to learn more.