Fortified Academy is proud to announce that our Founder and CEO, Monica Gilbert, has been awarded a scholarship sponsored by JPMorganChase to attend the NeighborWorks America Training Institute in Miami, taking place August 10–14, 2026.
NeighborWorks America’s National Training Institutes have a 45-year legacy of equipping community-serving professionals with specialized training, practical tools, and innovative strategies to strengthen organizations and expand impact in communities across the country.
This scholarship represents a significant opportunity for Fortified Academy to deepen our expertise, build new relationships, and bring back proven approaches that will further strengthen our workforce development and pre-apprenticeship programs in Aurora and throughout Colorado.
Thanks to the generous support of JPMorganChase, a limited number of scholarships were awarded to organizations committed to transforming lives through leadership development, capacity building, and community-centered solutions.
A Message from Monica Gilbert
“This scholarship is an incredible honor and a powerful investment in Fortified Academy’s mission. Attending the NeighborWorks America Training Institute will allow us to gain new insights, strengthen our organizational capacity, and bring back innovative strategies that help us better serve individuals and families seeking economic mobility.
We are grateful to JPMorganChase and NeighborWorks America for investing in leaders and organizations that are committed to creating lasting change in our communities.”
Why This Matters
At Fortified Academy, we believe that access to high-quality training, supportive services, and direct pathways to employment can transform lives. The knowledge and connections gained through this institute will help us:
Expand our workforce development and RAP and Pre-apprenticeship programs
Strengthen partnerships with employers and community organizations
Increase organizational capacity and leadership effectiveness.
Create more pathways to high-demand careers
About Fortified Academy
Fortified Academy is a Colorado-based workforce development organization dedicated to equipping individuals with the skills, credentials, and support needed to secure meaningful employment and long-term economic stability.
We serve youth and adults facing barriers to employment, including justice-impacted individuals, veterans, women entering nontraditional careers, and other underserved populations.
Looking Ahead
As Fortified Academy continues to grow, opportunities like this help us stay at the forefront of workforce innovation and community impact. We look forward to bringing back new ideas and best practices that will strengthen our ability to serve Colorado residents and build sustainable career pathways.
To learn more about Fortified Academy, visit www.fortifiedacademy.com