LaGuardia Community College Launches Tuition-Free Data Analytics Bootcamp with Direct Pathway to Employment
LONG ISLAND CITY, NY (July 8, 2025) — LaGuardia Community College/CUNY has launched a tuition-free Data Analytics Pre-Apprenticeship Bootcamp to prepare New Yorkers making less than $55,000 annually for high-demand careers in tech. Funded by a $412,000 grant from the CUNY Workforce Development Initiative (WDI), the program offers 180 hours of hands-on training in SQL, Python, and Tableau—three of the most widely used tools in the data industry—and connects participants to paid, long-term apprenticeships or other employment opportunities.
The bootcamp is open to individuals with a high school diploma or GED, making it accessible to those without a bachelor’s degree. Jobs for the Future (JFF) has identified Black, Hispanic, and older adults, women, and those without a college degree as historically underrepresented in the tech industry. By lowering barriers to entry, this program aims to expand access to meaningful careers in data analytics for communities that have been excluded from the tech workforce.
Data analytics is one of seven high-demand occupational areas among NYC employers, according to the New York Jobs CEO Council.
“Data analytics helps organizations answer important questions and make informed decisions,” said Kelsey Harro, Technology Training Manager at LaGuardia. “It’s a great field for people who enjoy working with patterns, making sense of complex information, and applying data to solve real-world problems.”
Individuals who complete the bootcamp will earn a LaGuardia Certificate in Data Analytics and may qualify for a 28-month paid apprenticeship with The Data School, the training arm of data consultancy The Information Lab. Apprentices earn between $60,000 and $65,000 annually, with benefits, and gain real-world consulting experience. Those not selected for the apprenticeship will receive job placement support from LaGuardia employment specialists.
“LaGuardia’s commitment to delivering high-impact technical education to New Yorkers from all walks of life makes them a powerful partner,” said Collin Smith, Director of Data School Operations at The Information Lab US. “Together, we’re creating a true earn-and-learn pathway into data careers.”
The bootcamp builds on LaGuardia’s strong track record in data analytics and apprenticeship programs. Since 2021, the college has trained more than 525 students in data analytics, including through partnerships with major employers like Healthfirst and NYC Health + Hospitals. Graduates have gone on to careers in fintech, healthcare, education, and more—earning competitive salaries (often more than $100,000 annually). The apprenticeship component is modeled after LaGuardia’s successful apprenticeship program with Wells Fargo.
In addition to technical instruction, students will receive career readiness coaching, complete a capstone project, and have access to support services including LaGuardia’s Wellness and Health Centers, Career and Technical Education Assistance, CARES (College Access for Retention and Economic Success), and other programs designed to reduce common barriers to completion.
The first cohort begins August 18, 2025; the second cohort begins in January 2026.
For more information or to apply, visit LaGuardia.edu/Data-Analytics-Bootcamp or contact Arlene Chico-Lugo at arlene.chico-lugo79@lagcc.cuny.edu.
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LaGuardia Community College (LAGCC), a Hispanic-Serving Institution, located in Long Island City, Queens offers more than 50 associate degrees and academic certificates, and more than 65 continuing education programs to prepare New Yorkers for transfer to senior colleges and rewarding jobs and careers. An institution of the City University of New York (CUNY), the College reflects the legacy of our namesake, Fiorello H. LaGuardia, the former NYC mayor beloved for his advocacy of the underserved. Since 1971, LaGuardia’s academic programs and support services have advanced the socioeconomic mobility of students from Queens, NYC and beyond.
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