Why We Built the Takeoff Institute

The best way to jump-start a young professional career is by finding valuable work experience before graduating. Yet all too often, minority students hit graduation with nothing other than academic experience on their resumes. This cycle perpetuates and without proper mentorship, many highly qualified students end up being left behind because they simply don’t make it through the “top of funnel” recruiting funnels that exist.


 

We have reached over 250 students to date

Students who leave the Takeoff Institute feel more confident and be better prepared as they begin to build their young professional journey..

We Designed the “REM System”

Recruiting for corporate America is broken. While we can’t change the recruiting funnel, we can better prepare aspiring Black students by giving them three core skill sets:

Resources: exposure to the tools you use on the job

Exposure: seeing Black leaders at firms they admire

Mentorship: experience having a direct report

By giving students the fundamentals and skills that all jobs require (attention to detail, effective communication, collaboration, etc.) the Takeoff Institute will empower Black undergraduate students across the country to launch their careers and succeed after graduation.

Our Pillars

  1. Work experience is more important than ever

  2. 1 strong mentor > 100 “Coffee Chats”

  3. High-impact mentorship creates long-term value

  4. Energy spent networking compounds

  5. You can make a difference!

Our Strategy

The Takeoff Institute is designed to build valuable Fellow/Advisor relationships that launch the careers of Black undergrad students across the country. Whether you have the potential to become a Fellow, Advisor, or supporter, we hope you help us position young Black professionals to graduate and go make a difference in the world!

Meet The Team

Brian Hollins

Founder & CEO

Kendall Easley

Head of Communications & Program Manager

Stephanie Bui

Board Member

Andrew Shapiro

Board Member

Haley Brown

Board Member

Alex Mitchell

Board Member