Pioneers Academy
Email: pioneers@acceleras.io
Participating in the Pioneers Academy will offer you dynamic, skill-focused programs designed for skilled and highly-skilled unemplyed profesional who have already completed their first level higher education degree (Bachelor), especially migrants, individuals with a migration background, refugees, and people from other EU nationalities who are eager to excel in the job market. Our comprehensive accerleration framework over six months is tailored to meet the needs of professionals aiming to upskill, adapt to new industries, or advance in their current careers. These targeted learning experiences combine practical knowledge, personal coaching, and in-demand skills training to ensure participating Pioneers are equipped for the evolving demands of the workforce. The academy is contiously reviewed and adopted after the selection of each cycle to maximize career development, incorporating latest real-world applications, insights from industry experts, and hands-on activities that foster confidence and expertise. Whether you’re looking to kickstart a new career, transition into a new role, or simply expand your skill set, our Pioneers Academy offers the tools, guidance, and resources you need to thrive. Our inclusive, non-profit approach ensures that the programs remain accessible to everyone, reinforcing our commitment to social impact and equal opportunities. Together, we will achieve your professional goals and build a brighter future.
The Pioneers Academy is guided by the insights from the World Economic Forum’s “Future of Jobs” report, which highlights the essential skills needed for 2025 and beyond. The report identifies key competencies that will drive success in the evolving job market. Our academy curriculum is designed to align with these emerging trends, ensuring participants are equipped with the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. By focusing on in-demand skills such as data analysis, digital marketing, and adaptive leadership, we empower individuals to not only meet current market needs but also to anticipate and adapt to future demands. This forward-thinking approach underpins our commitment to providing relevant, practical training that prepares our participants for a successful career journey in the 21st century.
Participants Profile:
- Migrants and refugees who have completed higher education or
vocational training.
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Individuals with a migration background seeking career growth.
People with professional or academic qualifications seeking to enter the job market or resume their career.
EU nationals with the right to work in Austria who want to advance their careers.
Program Features:
– Workshops and Trainings: Tailored sessions on job applications, interview preparation, local work culture, and employment laws.
– Individual Coaching: 1-on-1 personalized coaching sessions to refine your professional goals and work on personal development.
– Networking Events: Opportunities to meet professionals, connect with companies, and build your professional network.
– Mentorship: Access to experienced professionals across various sectors for guidance and support.
– Job Placement Assistance: Help with matching your skills with relevant job opportunities in Austria.
Program Duration:
– The program runs for six months and is divided into three phase (Clearing one month, Learning four months, Empowerment one month).
– We start two times a year, in January and in July.
Program Phases:
Phase 1: Clearing (Months 1-2)
– Introduction to the job market.
– Career planning and goal-setting.
– Job application workshops (CV, cover letter)
– Interview skills training.
Phase 2: Skills Development (Months 4-5)
– In-depth courses (German/English improvement, Excel, business communication).
– Professional development workshops (leadership, project management).
Phase 3: Job Search & Placement (Months 5-6)
– Job search strategies.
– Application and interview practice.
– Introduction to potential employers.
– 1-on-1 coaching for job success.
Workshops Schedule:
Month 1: Career Foundations
– Week 1: Introduction to the Program [In-Person]
Understanding your career path and personal development goals.
– Week 2: Identifying Professional Strengths & Goals [Online]
Aligning your skills with market demands.
– Week 3: Crafting Your CV and Cover Letter [Online]
Developing an impactful resume and cover letter.
– Week 4: Interview Skills Workshop [In-Person]
Preparing for interviews with confidence and effectiveness.
Month 2: Digital Literacy and Technology Skills
– Week 5: Data Literacy and Analysis [Online]
Introduction to data-driven decision-making, a key skill for most industries.
– Week 6: Digital Marketing and Social Media Management [In-Person]
Learn the fundamentals of digital marketing, brand presence, and managing social media platforms.
– Week 7: Basic Coding and Automation [Online]
Introduction to basic coding languages and automation tools, designed for beginners.
– Week 8: Cybersecurity Awareness [In-Person]
Gain knowledge about data protection, security risks, and digital safety.
Month 3: Soft Skills and Emotional Intelligence
– Week 9: Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace [Online]
Understand how to manage emotions, improve interpersonal relationships, and navigate the workplace dynamics.
– Week 10: Creativity and Innovation [In-Person]
Practical exercises to foster creativity and innovative problem-solving in professional settings.
– Week 11: Leadership and Teamwork [Online]
Learn essential leadership skills and how to effectively collaborate in teams.
– Week 12: Adaptability and Resilience [In-Person]
Build resilience and adaptability to thrive in changing work environments.
Month 4: Advanced Professional Development
– Week 13: Complex Problem Solving and Critical Thinking [Online]
Develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities for complex work challenges.
– Week 14: Negotiation and Conflict Resolution [In-Person]
Learn strategies for negotiation and resolving conflicts in professional environments.
– Week 15: Analytical Thinking and Innovation [Online]
Understand how to approach problems analytically and develop innovative solutions.
– Week 16: Ethical Decision-Making in Business [In-Person]
Explore the importance of ethics in business and how to navigate difficult decisions.
Month 5: Specialized Skills and Networking
– Week 17: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning [Online]
Learn the basics of AI and its applications in various industries.
– Week 18: Advanced Excel and Data Visualization [In-Person]
Gain advanced skills in Excel and learn how to present data visually to influence decisions.
– Week 19: Project Management Tools and Techniques [Online]
Explore project management methodologies such as Agile and learn to use key tools like Trello and Asana.
– Week 20: Building Professional Networks [In-Person]
Networking techniques and strategies to expand your professional contacts.
Month 6: Finalizing Job Readiness
– Week 21: Job Market Insights and Application Strategy [In-Person]
Learning job search strategies, preparing applications, and identifying opportunities.
– Week 22: Mock Interviews with Industry Experts [Online]
Practice interviews with professionals from various industries to receive direct feedback.
– Week 23: Cultural Aspects of Working in Austria [In-Person]
Understanding the local business culture and workplace etiquette.
– Week 24: Presentation and Public Speaking Skills [Online]
Develop strong public speaking and presentation skills, essential for career growth.
Eligibility Criteria:
– Aged at least 18 and maximum 35 years old.
– Have been unemployed for more than three months.
– Not working at all or maximum 10 hours per week (Geringfügig)
– Have the legal right to work in Austria (work permit or citizenship or EU nationality).
– Hold a university degree or vocational training certification.
– Have a minimum language proficiency of B1 German or B2 in English.
– Be motivated to start or advance your career in Austria.
Application Process:
1. Application: Submit your details, including a resume and a personal statement per email with the Subject “Pioneer Academy – First and Second Name – Application” to our email address: pioneers@acceleras.io
Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis. There is no deadline.
2. Assessment: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online or in-person assessment. This will include group tasks, a personal interview, and an opportunity to ask questions.
3. Start: Once accepted, you’ll begin your journey with us, starting with an introductory workshop.
Participation Fee:
– A one-time fee of €600 for the six-month program. Payment plans are available, and certain participants (e.g., those receiving government assistance and single mothers) may qualify for a fee waiver.
– We also offer small assignments such as research, translation, proofreading, data entry, or design of learning materials, among others, in return for the participation fee to cover the costs and alo gain some practical experience.
Academy History:
– The initial framework of the academy szatzed in 2024 and included 19 participatns. This was a testing of our academy approach.
– More than 50% of our academy graduates found a job within three months of completing the academy, either through direct placement, career speed dating, career networking, or using the skills gained to navigate the job market independently.
– The first cycle of the academy after the initil testing is to be launched by January 2025 and aims to include 20 participants.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– What if I find a job during the program?
– You can continue participating in workshops and coaching as long as it fits your schedule, or you can opt out without any penalties.
– Is the program offered online or in person?
– We offer a hybrid format. Many workshops are held online, but we also encourage participation in in-person sessions to build stronger connections.
– What language is the program offered in?
– The program is available in German and English. Some workshops are exclusively in one language, so proficiency in either German or English is required.
Partner With Us!
– We collaborate with businesses and organizations looking to hire skilled and diverse talent. If you are a company interested in partnering with us, please contact: pioneers@acceleras.io
– Additionally, organizations and companies can become sponsors of the academy by either providing financial donations or contributing in-kind support. This can include providng workshops, organizing study visits, or offering job shadowing opportunities for our participants. Your support helps us expand our programs and provide valuable experiences for individuals striving to advance their careers.
"The purpose of coaching is to close the gap between potential and performance". - Keith Webb
Join Our Team of Mentors and Trainers!
– We are on the lookout for experienced trainers and professionals who are passionate about helping others achieve their career goals. As a volunteer mentor or volunteer trainer, you will play a crucial role in guiding participants through their career development while gaining valuable experience in mentorship and training. Volunteers are also essential to keep the participation fee in this academy as low as possible to make it most accessible.
– Volunteers will receive certificates of recognition for their contributions and will have priority access to our fully funded opportunities for professional development.
Are you ready to create positive change, contact us now: pioneers@acceleras.io
