CT SENATE MAJORITY LEADER HELPS LAUNCH INITIATIVE TO FUND VOCATIONAL TRAINING PROGRAM

On Thursday, November 14th, Connecticut State Senator Bob Duff helped launch a unique fundraiser for Harbor Bridge Academy. The Senate Majority Leader sampled a pint of Black Bridge Brew at Saltwater Restaurant and Bar in Norwalk’s Historic SoNo district. Saltwater Restaurant and Bar is just the first of numerous restaurants in the state to carry this “beer with a mission.”

Black Bridge Brew is the brainchild of SoNo-based Black Bridge Motors’ founder Scott Gilbert.  A portion of each sale of this Connecticut-brewed IPA will go towards the funding of Norwalk’s Harbor Bridge Academy to help fulfill their mission offering STEAM-based vocational educational programs to an underserved audience. For Norwalk high school students showing aptitude and a strong interest in automotive and related technical careers, Harbor Bridge Academy offers an accessible and tuition-free entry point to an industry in need of new talent.

In addition to Senator Duff, attending the event was Brien McMahon High School Principal Scott Hurwitz. Principal Hurwitz has been instrumental in helping launch Harbor Bridge Academy’s training program. “For many students, a traditional four-year college track is not the best option. Harbor Bridge is offering an alternative for students who might be better served with an alternative, vocational-based path. We’re helping to identify those students who could benefit from this well-structured, academically grounded program.”

Harbor Bridge Academy founder Scott Gilbert agreed. “We’ve become conditioned to believe that the only road to success is through a college degree. Meanwhile, we’re saddling our young people with crushing debt and no way to get out from under it. In our pilot program, we had nearly 100 students express interest in attending. After a rigorous interview process, we accepted 15 students. Out of that class, Black Bridge Motors hired four interns, and one full-time employee. No matter what career they pursue, the other graduates now have new marketable skills. And it’s not just Norwalk schools. We’ve had strong interest from other neighboring towns including New Canaan. This program resonates with folks at every socioeconomic level.”

Senator Duff summed it up. “Today, in the automotive segment and other industries, there are many high-salary jobs but a shortage of workers to fill these roles. Harbor Bridge Academy is offering students an opportunity to pursue careers in these fields without needing a traditional four-year college education. I applaud their efforts and look forward to seeing them expand the opportunity to a broader audience.”

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For information about Harbor Bridge Academy, go to: https://harborbridgeacademy.com

For information about Black Bridge Motors, go to: https://www.blackbridgemotors.com

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Submitted by Norwalk, CT

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