Stories & Updates

💼 The Workforce Is Changing — And Opportunity Is Growing Across the country, the job market is shifting in a way that creates new possibilities for students who pursue skill‑based education, professional certifications, and associate degrees. Employers in Colorado are facing shortages in fields that require hands‑on talent, technical expertise, and industry‑recognized credentials — not necessarily a four‑year degree. For low‑income students, this shift represents something p

Colorado is witnessing a remarkable trend. High school students are increasingly enrolling in college-level courses. This surge indicates a strong desire among young people to acquire skills that lead to meaningful employment. According to a recent report highlighted by Chalkbeat Colorado, around 40% of community college enrollment now consists of high school students earning college credits. In fall 2025, over 40,000 Colorado high schoolers participated in dual enrollment, m

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Bates Philanthropic Initiative (BPI) contact@bpicharity.org Beth Best, BPI Board of Directors Littleton, CO —August 12th, 2026 — The Bates Philanthropic Initiative (BPI) is proud to announce the election of Beth Best to its Board of Directors, expanding the organization’s leadership team with a seasoned expert in education, workforce development, and community partnership building. Beth brings more than 17 years of experience advancing opportunities

The demand for skilled trades workers is rising rapidly across the United States. Companies like Ford, Google, Carhartt, and BlackRock have recently joined forces to promote careers in skilled trades, recognizing the critical role these jobs play in the economy. This collaboration highlights a growing awareness among industry leaders that investing in skills development, education, and training is essential to fill the millions of open positions in trades such as manufacturin

Steve Bates - President Since the last quarter of last year, we have proudly supported over 250 students through scholarships and grants. This milestone reflects a strong commitment to helping students overcome financial barriers and succeed in their educational journeys. The 2026 cohort includes six new and three returning BPI Scholars, each receiving vital support to reach their goals. Alongside financial aid, our partnerships with community organizations provide essential