First Tech Federal Credit Union Tuition Reimbursement & Scholarships

First Tech is committed to supporting its employees and their pursuit of higher education and professional development. They offer two critical programs to help offset the costs of higher education, and when coming to CIAT, you can further your skills without hurting your pockets.

50% Off Tuition Offer When Using Your Employer Tuition Reimbursement Programs  

For a limited time, CIAT offers First Tech employees a 50% tuition discount to pursue higher education at CIAT when using their employer tuition reimbursement. This remarkable offer allows students to use their employer benefits to cover all or most of their tuition expenses, leaving students with zero to minimal payments.  

Employee Tuition Reimbursement Program

For our valued eligible employees, we provide:

• Up to $5,800 per year in tuition reimbursement
• Eligibility for coursework related to your role at First Tech
• Support for your professional growth and career development

This program is part of our comprehensive benefits package, designed to help you reach your dreams and advance your career with First Tech.

Eligibility Criteria:

• First Tech member in good standing by application deadline
• Enrolled or planning to enroll as a full-time or part-time student at an accredited institution
• Minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA
• No age requirement; it is open to students at all levels of study

Member Scholarship Program

First Tech team members can reap the following benefits:

• Twelve $5,000 scholarships awarded annually
• Five scholarships for STEM-focused majors
• Five scholarships for other areas of study
• Two scholarships for family members of First Tech employees

Key Details:

• Application period: December 1, 2024 (midnight PST) – January 15, 2025 (11:59 PM PST)
• Scholarships awarded: Late April 2025

Elevate Your Professional Journey with CIAT

First Tech Federal Credit Union’s comprehensive educational support program allows employees to enhance their skills through the California Institute of Applied Technology (CIAT). CIAT delivers practical, industry-oriented education tailored for busy professionals like yourself.

Industry-Driven Instruction

CIAT’s faculty consists of active industry practitioners who bring current, hands-on experience to the virtual classroom. This approach ensures you acquire skills that are immediately applicable to your work environment, setting CIAT apart from traditional academic institutions.

Adaptive Online Format

CIAT’s fully digital programs allow you to harmonize your work commitments with educational pursuits. The curriculum features self-guided video lectures that you can access according to your schedule. CIAT’s condensed 5-week course structure enables steady progress without compromising your First Tech career.

Career-Centric Curriculum

CIAT eliminates superfluous general education requirements, focusing instead on cultivating job-relevant technical proficiencies. The curriculum is designed to develop professional competencies that align with high-demand roles in IT, cybersecurity, business, finance, and related fields, all pertinent to the credit union sector.

Progressive Credential Path

Optimize your First Tech tuition benefits with CIAT’s progressive degree structure. Begin with a certificate, then seamlessly transition those credits toward an Associate’s and, ultimately, a Bachelor’s degree. This approach allows for continuous skill development within your First Tech role.

Embedded Professional Certifications

CIAT integrates industry-recognized certifications into its academic programs at no additional cost. Graduates earn both degrees and valuable certifications that validate their expertise. CIAT also offers unlimited certification exam attempts until successful completion.

Ongoing Career Support

CIAT’s commitment extends beyond graduation with comprehensive career services. You’ll have access to personalized coaching, interview preparation, resume refinement, job search assistance, and more, supporting your long-term professional growth at First Tech and in your future endeavors.

How to Apply:

1. Review our Scholarship FAQ for detailed information
2. Prepare required documents (transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc.)
3. Complete the online application during the open period

First Tech believes in investing in our employees and members. Whether through tuition reimbursement or scholarships, CIAT supports all First Tech employees in their educational journey and helps them achieve their goals at low costs.