In early 2020, Cisco announced a new purpose to power an Inclusive Future for all. Cisco will help bridge gaps of inequity and exclusion worldwide through the technology we build, their commitment to corporate social responsibility and social justice, and the support we bring to their communities. One of the ways in which Cisco powers an inclusive future is through the Bridge Academy program. Bridge Academy brings governments, NGOs, educators, and hiring businesses together to provide people with disabilities technology training and a job within a year. Founded by Cisco retiree Pat Romzek, Bridge Academy is based on Cisco’s Networking Academy model for teaching networking technology skills. Several programs have been initiated throughout the US and abroad. As of early 2021, Bridge Academy has graduated 160 students, and has an over 90% certification and internship rate.
