FTW Foundation empowers 55 women graduates with tech training in Data Analytics and Data Engineering
- Graduation of Batch 11 marks FTW’s largest cohort since 2018, as more Filipinas transition into tech careers.
MAKATI CITY, Philippines – FTW Foundation Inc, a non-government organization committed to upskilling deserving women through free data skills training, will celebrate the graduation of its Batch 11 scholars on November 15, 2025 at Security Bank Centre, Makati. The event marks the foundation’s largest cohort to date – with 55 women completing an intensive 12-week training in Data Analytics and Data Engineering.
Since 2018, FTW Foundation has trained over 600 women, with over 70% of graduates securing new roles in tech within six months of completing the program. On average, alumni have more than tripled their income compared to their pre-training salaries, underscoring the transformative impact of accessible tech education for women.
“Through this program, we aim to open doors to careers that can truly change lives and communities,” said Cara Wilson, FTW Co-Founder and Executive Director. “Each batch reaffirms that with the right support and community, Filipinas can thrive in the tech industry, regardless of their background.”
All Batch 11 scholars began with a Data Fundamentals course led by Michelle Alarcon, FTW Co-Founder and Head of Learning, and President of the Analytics and AI Association of the Philippines, focusing on business problem framing, data analysis and the responsible use of data – skills that form the foundation of effective data practice. The training then expanded into two specialized tracks: Data Analytics and Data Engineering. The Data Analytics scholars, guided by Carmi Esclanda-Lo of the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas and FTW Deputy Head of Learning, explored data visualization, storytelling and statistical analysis using tools like Tableau. Meanwhile, the Data Engineering group, mentored by Myk Ogbinar of San Miguel Corp. and Data Engineering Pilipinas, learned to build their own robust data pipelines, manage SQL databases and design dimensional models.
Over the course of 12 intense weeks, scholars devoted their Saturdays to in-person classes, complemented by hours of online self-learning and group assignments during the week. Their journey culminates with the presentation of capstone projects tackling real-world issues such as vote education and awareness (in collaboration with NAMFREL), disaster preparedness, national infrastructure spending, and women’s health.
The graduation will feature Ambe Tierro, Country Managing Director of Accenture Technology Philippines, as keynote speaker. Sponsors and partners, including Accenture, and Asia Pacific College, TutorialsDojo, AgroDigital PH, Telostaff and WTW, will also be recognized for their generous support of Batch 11’s learning experience.
When asked about their biggest personal lessons, several scholars shared inspiring reflections:
“I learned that I am capable of many things and I just have to push myself and reach for it.”
“I learned to give myself room to make mistakes, because that’s where growth happens”
Looking ahead, FTW Foundation plans to launch more programs in 2026 and welcomes partnerships with organizations that share its mission of empowering women in tech, “Together, we can create more opportunities for women to thrive in the data-driven economy),” added Cara Wilson.
