Workforce development platform is expanding its vocational training footprint into diesel and HVAC technician programs, broadening a model originally focused on commercial driver's license (CDL) certifications for justice-involved individuals. Founded in 2022 out of Y Combinator, the New York-based company builds software that enables incarcerated and re-entering individuals to complete trade certifications, develop soft skills, and transition directly into high-demand jobs.
As reported by The Worcester Guardian, the company's expansion into new technical tracks targets fields facing persistent labor shortages, where starting wages average around $75,000. In Worcester County, graduates from the initial trucking pathway achieved average annual incomes of $83,000, with public safety officials reporting zero percent recidivism among participants. The expanded curriculum incorporates national certifications and job placement services aimed at creating long-term economic mobility.
Software Built for High-Retention Placement
uses a hybrid online-offline learning architecture designed for correctional facilities and post-release schedules. As detailed in TechCrunch, students complete modular coursework on mobile devices and sync their progress when internet connectivity is available, similar to commercial learning management systems. Success coaches support students through virtual office hours, handling logistical hurdles such as state identification paperwork and proctored testing.
In addition to technical trades, the platform integrates soft skills instruction, digital literacy, and financial planning coursework updated for modern workplaces. In an interview with Finger Lakes Daily News, co-founder and CEO Uzoma "Zo" Orchingwa noted that the platform leverages AI tools to help students draft professional documents and prepare for employment interviews. The software also provides government agency partners with detailed analytics to track program completion rates, job retention, and economic metrics.
Data reported on a CBS Evening News segment showed that 94% of students enrolled in the company's re-entry programs graduated, with 100% of those graduates receiving job offers averaging $75,000 per year. To support long-term stability, success coaches maintain contact with participants for up to 12 months after job placement.
Founder Background and Capital Backing
was co-founded by Uzoma "Zo" Orchingwa and Gabriel Saruhashi. Uzoma "Zo" Orchingwa holds a JD-MBA from Yale Law School and Yale School of Management as well as a Master's degree in Criminology from the University of Cambridge. Gabriel Saruhashi studied Computer Science and Psychology at Yale University and previously served as the first product manager at Zippi.
The pair previously co-founded Ameelio, a technology non-profit that built free communication and education software for incarcerated individuals. While scaling Ameelio's prison communication infrastructure, the founders identified widespread post-release unemployment as a primary driver of recidivism. They launched as a public benefit corporation to establish direct hiring pipelines with national employers.
In late 2022, raised a $3.2 million Seed round led by Alexis Ohanian's 776, with participation from Y Combinator, SoftBank Opportunity Fund, Pioneer Fund, Unpopular Ventures, and angel investor Lenny Rachitsky. The capital supported state government contract acquisition and expansion into additional technical trades.
Speaking to TechCrunch, Gabriel Saruhashi explained the rationale for broadening the course offerings: "Trucking has been an exciting starting point, but we know many people cannot be away from home for prolonged periods of time, be it for personal reasons or reentry obligations. Ultimately, we want to offer training programs for individuals from all walks of life."
Team Growth and Open Positions
Operating with an 8-person team out of New York City, builds its product stack on React, Node.js, TypeScript, and GraphQL. The business model relies on securing state contracts, public sector funding, and national employer commitments to provide free training for students.
To drive government contracting and enterprise sales, the team is hiring sales and operations leaders in Harlem, New York City. The Founding Public Sector Account Executive ($150,000–$240,000, onsite) will manage regional sales engines by drafting proposals, tracking legislation, working with political stakeholders, and securing multi-year state and federal contracts. On the corporate side, the Enterprise Account Executive ($150,000–$240,000, onsite) will prospect and close national employers to secure annual hiring commitments for program graduates.
Employer network expansion is also supported by the Senior Partnerships Manager ($145,000–$170,000, onsite), who owns employer relationships from initial pitch to student handoff. Meanwhile, the New Business & Strategy Lead ($110,000–$170,000, onsite) develops training programs from R&D to student enrollment while building automated operational playbooks.
To drive student acquisition and share graduate outcome stories, the company is also expanding its media team. The Founding Media Producer (Social Media) ($110,000–$140,000, onsite) leads short-form video production and creator programs in Harlem, while the Social Media Marketing Intern ($30–$40/hr, onsite) assists with TikTok and Reels content creation.
Open Roles at Emerge Career
| Role | Location | Work Mode | Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enterprise Account Executive | New York, NY, US | Onsite | $150,000 – $240,000 |
| New Business & Strategy Lead | New York, NY, US | Onsite | $110,000 – $170,000 |
| Founding Public Sector Account Executive | New York, NY, US | Onsite | $150,000 – $240,000 |
| Senior Partnerships Manager | New York, NY, US | Onsite | $145,000 – $170,000 |
| Founding Media Producer (Social Media) | New York, NY, US | Onsite | $110,000 – $140,000 |
| Social Media Marketing Intern | New York, NY, US | Onsite | $30 – $40 / hr |
