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Launch your IT career with abilIT

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Are you interested in a career in Information Technology (IT) or Cybersecurity?

abilIT provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to gain in-demand technology skills, prepare for industry-recognized certifications and connect with employers who are hiring.

The program serves people with disabilities and injured veterans to sit for industry-recognized certifications, then supports finding employment in IT, cybersecurity, or tech-adjacent fields.

By pairing innovative, highly technical training with personalized soft skills instruction, abilIT equips participants with the skills they need to build lifelong careers as competitive technology professionals through job search assistance, and placement, including in the Defense and Intelligence Community.

This training is offered at no cost to program participants.

We encourage people with disabilities in Northwest Florida to apply, including veterans with service-connected disabilities, who have either a high school diploma, GED or equivalent, and have an interest and skillset in IT.

Man smiling pointing at computer screen, leading a training class

What you gain

Certifications earned
Participants can earn industry-recognized credentials, including CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+, building the foundation for a successful IT career.

Career opportunities
Graduates are prepared for roles such as help desk technician, cybersecurity analyst, tech support, IT specialist, and more—opening doors to meaningful, in-demand careers.

Job search support
From connecting with potential employers to navigating interviews, abilIT guides participants every step of the way to confidently pursue the right opportunities.

Free tech training
This program is offered at no cost to participants

Man smiling, looking at laptop

Who should apply

The abilIT program is designed for people with disabilities, including veterans with service-connected disabilities, who:

  • Are interested in technology careers
  • Are motivated to learn new skills
  • Are seeking competitive integrated employment

Eligibility

To join the abilIT program, you should meet the following requirements:

  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Experience: Some intermediate experience in IT or proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
  • Residency: Must be eligible to work in the U.S.
  • Funding: Training is fully covered at no cost to accepted candidates
Adult woman and two men listening to training class in room of computers

How it works

GCE offers the abilIT program in Pensacola, Florida, in partnership with Melwood. Learn how this program provides technical training, as well as professional and personal development, at partner sites across the country

Join our next cohort: abilIT Program Interest Form

Thank you for your interest in the abilIT Program! Please complete this brief interest form with your contact information, and a member of our team will contact you to discuss the program and next steps.

For questions, please contact [email protected] or (office phone) 850-495-2351.

abilIT Program Interest Form

Name(Required)
Date of Birth(Required)
Date of Birth
Home Address(Required)
Home Address
Your email address
Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?(Required)

The contents of this web page were developed under grant H421F240094 from the U.S. Department of Education (Department). The Department does not mandate or prescribe practices, models, or other activities described or discussed in this document. The contents of this web page may contain examples of, adaptations of, and links to resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The Department does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. The content of this web page does not necessarily represent the policy of the Department. This publication is not intended to represent the views or policy of or be an endorsement of any views expressed or materials provided by any Federal agency.