Michael Antignano
is someone who wants to keep learning.
“Fora has given me the chance to take control of my life by giving me valuable employment skills.”
For 30 years, Fora has been a leader in delivering high-quality outsourcing solutions to government and private-sector partners while creating meaningful employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. From facilities management and switchboard operations to mailroom and janitorial services, Fora has built a reputation grounded in reliability, professionalism, and impact.
As workforce demands continue to evolve, particularly in the technology sector, Fora has expanded its mission by creating new pathways into IT careers through its award-winning IT Training & A+ Certification Program.
Launched five years ago, the program was designed to address two important needs: the growing demand for skilled entry-level IT professionals and the lack of accessible, high-quality technical training opportunities for individuals with diverse abilities. What began as a pilot initiative has grown into an intensive 23-week training program that equips participants with technical knowledge, hands-on experience, and real-world workplace readiness.
Among the many success stories to emerge from the program is Michael Antignano.
Michael joined the training program while he was between jobs and searching for a new direction. Through Fora, he was given the opportunity to pursue CompTIA A+ certification and strengthen his resume with valuable technical skills.
“The IT training program was a very intensive but easy-to-follow regiment of classes designed to give the student a course in both hardware and software training,” Michael shared. “It was dense, but parts of the information were things I was already familiar with from my own personal studies, which gave me an advantage in following along with the lectures and homework.”
The program not only expanded Michael’s technical abilities but also helped him secure long-term employment. Since February 4, 2024, he has worked as a Production Control Clerk, a role he has now held successfully for more than two years.
In his position, Michael manages a variety of responsibilities tied to maintaining accurate records within an online government database. His work supports courthouse maintenance operations performed by Fora contractors and includes scanning preventive maintenance documentation, organizing invoices, and maintaining detailed records that ensure accountability and transparency.
“My job is enjoyable because it involves many responsibilities,” Michael explained. “This job helps directly hold Fora accountable for the work done, so it has a very tangible effect on our success as a company.”
Michael’s journey reflects the broader impact of the Fora IT Training & A+ Certification Program. Graduates have moved into roles such as Help Desk Technicians, IT Support Professionals, Inventory and Production Control Clerks, and Digital Imaging Specialists at nonprofits, universities, IT consulting firms, and government agencies. Others have continued their education, and one graduate even earned a military promotion after completing the program and earning certification credentials.
Now, Fora is building on that momentum with the launch of a new Software and AI Innovation track. This expansion is designed to prepare students for the next generation of AI-augmented technical and administrative roles by providing training in AI tools, automation, and digital workflows—skills that are becoming increasingly valuable across industries.
In addition to technical instruction, students participate in nearly 40 hours of structured work-readiness training focused on communication, teamwork, professionalism, and job-search strategies.
“These are soft skills that not only transition to the workplace, but are so important in the real world as well,” said recent graduate Shayan, who secured full-time employment in IT after completing an internship partnership with LDI Connect.
As Fora continues to grow its technology training initiatives, stories like Michael’s demonstrate the transformative power of accessible education, practical skills training, and meaningful employment opportunities. Through innovation and inclusion, Fora is helping individuals build confidence, launch careers, and step successfully into the future of work.
