Launch your IT career with SMRCDC Training
SMRCDC has prioritized the following STEM industry sectors for certification. IT certifications boast numerous benefits. They bolster resumes, encourage higher salaries, and assist in job retention. The best IT certification varies industrywide. We have given much thought and consulted with our training partner. These credentials present a strong needs assessment and staunch support from employers in our region.
$0
Tuition for
enrolled students
9
Certification
programs offered
100%
Industry-recognized
credentials
CERTIFICATION PATHS
Explore Every Career Paths
Information Technology
Cosmetology & Barbering
Computing & Computer Science
Healthcare
CNA Trainings
Advanced Manufacturing & Construction
Autonomous Systems & Automation
Electrical
Welding
Cybersecurity & STEM trades
About the Program
YouthBuild Memphis: Workforce Development That Actually Works
YouthBuild is a community-based pre-apprenticeship program that exists to provide job training and meaningful educational opportunities for at-risk youth — specifically those ages 16 to 24 who have previously dropped out of high school.
We teach vocational skills in high-demand areas including construction, health care, information technology, and hospitality. But our deeper mission is to prepare participants for long-term opportunities in Technology and Workforce Development — not just to pass a test, but to build a career.
SMRCDC is committed to giving every graduate an industry-recognized credential that is immediately employable throughout the Memphis region and across the country. The credentials in this program were selected through rigorous research and consultation with IT partners and local employers.
THIS PROGRAM IS DESIGNED FOR
- Youth ages 16–24 in the Memphis area
- Those who have previously dropped out of high school
- People looking to build a first career in technology
- Students who benefit from structured, hands-on learning
- Anyone motivated to earn industry-recognized credentials
- Participants seeking free access to $2,400+ in training value
WHY IT MATTERS
IT Certifications Change Your Career Trajectory
A recognized certification isn’t just a credential on paper — it’s proof to employers that you can do the work. SMRCDC has partnered with leading industry bodies to bring these opportunities directly to our community.
Stronger Résumés
Certifications give employers a verified signal of your technical ability, helping your application stand out — especially if you’re entering the field for the first time.
Higher Earning Potential
Certified IT professionals consistently earn more than their non-certified peers. These credentials can unlock roles with significantly better salaries right from the start.
In-Demand Everywhere
Technology skills travel. The certifications in this program are recognized by employers across the country and in every major industry — from healthcare to finance to government.
Employer-Backed
These credentials were chosen after extensive consultation with regional employers and our IT training partners. They reflect what local companies actually want to see.
Job-Retention Edge
Professionals with recognized certifications are more likely to retain their positions during workforce changes — credentials demonstrate continuous value to employers.
Stackable Credentials
Start with foundational courses and build toward advanced specializations. Each certification you earn strengthens the next, creating a compounding career advantage.
HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS
A Rigorous, Real-World Learning Experience
This isn’t a passive online course. You’ll be embedded in a structured learning community, building skills through hands-on labs, peer collaboration, and instructor-guided sessions.
In-Person Classes in Memphis
We hold sessions at multiple locations in Memphis and Haywood — 4 to 5 days per week during the school year. Attendance and consistency are essential to success.
Hands-On Lab Experience
Both classroom instruction and real WBX lab exercises are used throughout the program. You’ll apply what you learn in the same environment as working professionals.
Structured 9-Month Academy
The program runs for 9 months through the Big Tech STEM Academy. Assignments must be submitted on schedule — there is no work-ahead or falling-behind.
Online Materials via YouthBuild Memphis
Lecture slides, assignments, quizzes, and rubrics are available on the YouthBuild Memphis Tech901 website. You’ll need a YouthBuild email account to participate.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This is a structured, deadline-driven program requiring consistent attendance and active participation — not self-paced study. Over 6 intensive weeks, you’ll build hands-on STEM skills and earn nationally recognized credentials with no degree required. Success depends on showing up, engaging with peers, and treating this as a collaborative learning experience.
WHAT YOU'LL GAIN
After Completing This Course, You Will Be Able To:
1
Frame Digital Safety as a Core Priority
Use expectation-setting frameworks from the start of training to focus on digital safety — addressing common errors, current threats, and practical risk mitigation strategies.
2
Apply Basic Technical Knowledge in Real Contexts
Understand prerequisite technologies well enough to perform required exercises — from setting up a web server to solving foundational computing problems under real constraints.
3
Train and Lead Without Overwhelming Others
Recognize that effective instruction — and effective collaboration — means guiding, not controlling. Participants learn how to share knowledge constructively in team settings.
Training Philosophy
“A well-trained participant doesn’t just learn technical skills — they learn how to work, communicate, and grow.”
FEE SCHEDULE
Course Costs & Enrollment
| Course | None Students | Students |
| Introduction of Technology | $250 | FREE |
| Computer Assembly and Disassembly | $200 | FREE |
| Basic Coding Techniques | $250 | FREE |
| Data Analytics | $250 | FREE |
| Web Design and Programming | $250 | FREE |
| Social Media Design and Programming | $275 | FREE |
| Certifications and Training | $250 | FREE |
| IT Networking Systems Training | $300 | FREE |
| Books & Labs | $375 | FREE |
| Total Tuition | $2,400 | FREE |
Prices shown are for non-enrolled participants. YouthBuild Memphis enrolled students receive full tuition coverage at no cost.
Before You Start
What You'll Need to Participate
To take part in learning activities and complete assignments, you’ll need access to the following tools and resources.
Device & Access
- A working computer with a current operating system and updates installed
- Reliable internet access and a YouthBuild Memphis email account
- Google Chrome browser (strongly recommended)
- Microsoft Word as your primary word processing tool
- Reliable data storage: USB drive or OneDrive cloud backup
Session Setup
- Speakers or headphones to hear lecture presentations (transcripts provided)
- Plus sessions or headphones are provided for in-class sessions
- A quiet, distraction-free space is strongly encouraged for at-home participation
- Consistent availability during scheduled class hours (4–5 days/week)
Don’t have Microsoft Office? YouthBuild students get Microsoft Office 365 ProPlus (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more) completely free on up to 5 devices — just ask your instructor to get access.
YOUR INSTRUCTOR
DH
Dr. Derek Henson
Instructor
info@youthbuild.com
1109 Mississippi Blvd., Memphis, TN 38106
Mon – Fri, 10:00 AM · Thursday hours as needed