DevPipeline News Release

DevPipeline, Utah’s pioneering software development apprenticeship company, has been named recipient of the Corporate Community Champion Award at the 2025 Utah Philanthropy Day celebration held December 5, 2025. The award, presented by Utah Philanthropy Day in partnership with AFP Utah Chapter, Utah Nonprofits Association, and UServe Utah, recognizes DevPipeline’s significant contribution to Utah communities through volunteerism, philanthropy, and corporate social responsibility. 

DevPipeline was nominated for this prestigious recognition by My Story Matters, a transformative non-profit organization that empowers individuals to become the creators of their own stories through life-changing curriculum. 

“DevPipeline exemplifies what it means to be a Corporate Community Champion through its unwavering commitment to lifting people, careers, and communities,” said Amy Chandler, Founder of My Story Matters, in her nomination. “With a mission to eliminate the software talent gap, DevPipeline empowers individuals from all backgrounds—especially those in rural and underserved areas of Utah—to gain valuable skills, earn industry-recognized certifications, and step confidently into high-demand technology careers.” 

BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE IN RURAL UTAH 

DevPipeline builds custom software while training the next generation of developers. Through Utah’s only competency-based registered apprenticeship in software development, they operate 4-6 development teams simultaneously—each working on real projects for business partners. This means aspiring developers don’t just learn in a classroom; they get paid to work on actual client projects alongside experienced mentors, gaining the diverse, hands-on experience that launches careers. 

The company’s unique model addresses both business needs and community development by offering affordable, high-quality software development services while simultaneously training the next generation of developers. DevPipeline prioritizes unemployed, underemployed individuals, veterans, at-risk youth, and marginalized groups, creating pathways to technology careers that might otherwise be inaccessible due to barriers of time, location, or financial constraints. 

With a particular focus on rural Utah communities, DevPipeline has become a catalyst for economic diversification, helping areas like Vernal combat the “brain

drain” that plagues many rural regions by creating high-tech jobs locally. The company was awarded a grant in 2024/2025 to expand its apprenticeship program to even more rural communities across the state. 

“Their purpose—changing lives one learner at a time—aligns closely with initiatives like the Utah Center for Rural Development, as DevPipeline focuses on creating equitable access to education and employment opportunities in regions that need them most,” Chandler noted. “By meeting individuals where they are and equipping them with the tools to succeed, DevPipeline transforms not just the trajectory of a single career, but the vitality of entire communities.” 

PROVEN RESULTS: EXCEPTIONAL OUTCOMES 

DevPipeline doesn’t just meet industry standards—we redefine them. 

94.74% completion rate – 60% higher than the national registered apprenticeship average of 59%. While most programs struggle to retain participants, DevPipeline’s integration of learning, mentorship, and real work keeps apprentices engaged and progressing. 

100% employment rate – Every graduate secures employment, either with DevPipeline or employer partners. This directly eliminates what 56% of Utah employers cite as their #1 hiring barrier: lack of experience. DevPipeline graduates don’t seek their first job—they transition from apprentice to employed professional. 

Solving employer demands: Utah workforce data shows employers rank demonstrated skills first (1.62), relevant work experience second (2.16), and degrees third (3.10). DevPipeline delivers exactly this priority order—every graduate exits with verified competency, real project experience, and technical credentials. 

Providing opportunity in tech: 42% of DevPipeline graduates are women—62% higher than the technology industry average of 26%. This isn’t rhetoric; it’s documented outcomes. Our commitment to equity extends throughout the organization: women hold 62.5% of leadership positions (5 of 8 leaders), compared to roughly 28% across the tech industry. 

*Sources: U.S. Department of Labor RAPIDS data; Utah System of Higher Education Workforce Alignment Study (2024); Bureau of Labor Statistics* 

REAL-WORLD IMPACT 

Through innovative partnerships with companies across industries, DevPipeline provides real-world learning experiences that close workforce gaps while cultivating a new generation of skilled, confident, and purpose-driven developers. The company’s apprenticeship model combines award-winning education with on-the-job experience, ensuring graduates are market-ready developers equipped with essential competencies, not just certificates of completion.

“BHI is a national construction company. As our business grew, our software needs became more complex. We were stuck until we found DevPipeline,” said Johnny Hacking, Director of Information Technology at BHI in Vernal, Utah. “All the software talent is assumed to be in big cities. There is so much talent here.” 

DevPipeline apprentices have shared transformative stories of personal and professional growth. John Ipson, now a Systems Engineer at University of Utah and remote worker in Vernal, Utah, explained: “I’ve always been interested in Development, but have had several barriers to entry, either through time, location, personal fear, or the financial commitments. DevPipeline took away all of these barriers…I have grown closer to my family as I am able to be with them more.” 

Amee Brisk, Software Developer QA Team Lead working remotely from Roosevelt, Utah, shared: “Before starting at DevPipeline I was a stay-at-home looking to go back to school. DevPipeline is one of the most positive teamwork environments that I have had the privilege to work in. They encourage us to learn and not be afraid to fail in the process. Accepting the opportunity to learn and work for DevPipeline has made a great impact on my life.” 

A TRANSFORMATIVE PARTNERSHIP 

The relationship between DevPipeline and My Story Matters demonstrates the power of collaborative community impact. Chandler praised DevPipeline’s innovative approach and authentic partnership: 

“Their innovation, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to empowerment have been a tremendous benefit to My Story Matters and the individuals we serve. What distinguishes this team is their ability to think boldly and creatively—constantly pushing beyond conventional approaches to design solutions that open doors for meaningful career advancement. Their vision has not only strengthened our vision, it has also transformed the trajectory of countless individuals by creating pathways that previously did not exist.” 

Chandler continued: “Throughout our partnership, they have demonstrated a deep respect for our mission and an authentic investment in our success. They listen, co-create, and adapt alongside us, ensuring that every initiative is strategic, inclusive, and sustainable. Their work does more than move projects forward—it elevates communities, strengthens systems, and changes the game for so many who deserve opportunity.” 

“We deeply value this partnership and are grateful for the impact they make every day,” Chandler concluded. “Their leadership and forward-thinking approach reflect the very best of what DevPipeline represents. Their employees have volunteered to help the work of My Story Matters and are generous with their time and networks. DevPipeline doesn’t just train software developers—it builds pathways to self-reliance, strengthens families, and uplifts communities across Utah.” 

My Story Matters serves as a catalyst for lasting transformation, helping people of all ages face an uncertain world with confidence and excitement. Operating across 11 states and reaching 72 countries, the organization offers age-appropriate

programs that build resilience, confidence, and self-efficacy. With justice-involved individuals, My Story Matters has achieved a remarkable 96% non-reincarceration rate among those who complete their full three rounds compared to Utah’s average recidivism rate of 80%. 

GOVERNMENT AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT 

DevPipeline’s impact has garnered strong support from local government leaders. Quinn Bennion, Vernal City Manager, stated: “We want to bring more tech-based jobs into the Basin and avoid this brain drain that so many rural communities experience. DevPipeline has made a significant, positive impact on Vernal City through their dedicated efforts and commitment to fostering economic growth and prosperity. I enthusiastically endorse DevPipeline! It is working! I encourage every rural community to look at similar opportunities.” 

Travis Campbell, Uintah County Economic Director, added: “When we are talking about rural economies and diversifying the economies, this program has really caused excitement for the business community as a whole on what we can do and how we can grow.” 

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION 

The Corporate Community Champion Award adds to DevPipeline’s growing list of recognitions for its innovative approach to workforce development and community impact: 

• Corporate Community Champion Award, Utah Philanthropy Day (December 2025) • Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity Grant (2024/2025) • Outstanding Registered Apprenticeship Employer, Apprenticeship Utah and Department of Workforce Services (November 2023) 
• Utah Innovation Awards, Professional Services 1st Place (2022) • Orem Business Alliance Innovation Category Award (2022) 
• Department of Labor Recognition for 94.74% Completion Rate and 100% Employment Placement 

ABOUT DEVPIPELINE 

DevPipeline is an innovative software development apprenticeship company based in Orem, Utah, dedicated to closing the software talent gap while developing people, careers, and communities. As Utah’s only competency-based registered apprenticeship program in software development, DevPipeline provides first-employment opportunities through mentor-led, real-world experience. The company prioritizes serving unemployed, underemployed individuals, veterans, at-risk youth, and marginalized groups, with a special focus on creating economic opportunities in rural Utah communities. With a Department of Labor-recognized 94.74% completion rate and 100% employment placement, DevPipeline demonstrates measurable success in workforce development. The company’s commitment to diversity is reflected in its 42% female graduate rate and 62.5% female leadership team. Through partnerships with local governments, businesses,

and educational institutions, DevPipeline builds technical talent within communities while delivering custom software solutions. For more information, visit www.devpipeline.com. 

ABOUT MY STORY MATTERS 

My Story Matters is a transformative non-profit organization founded by Amy Chandler that empowers individuals to become the creators of their own stories through a life-changing curriculum focused on education, transformation, growth, and healing. Operating across 11 states and reaching 72 countries, My Story Matters offers age-appropriate programs: “Claim Your Story” for elementary students (K-6th grade), “Chart Your Story” for teens (7th-12th grade), and “Captain Your Story” for adults (18+). Each curriculum builds resilience, confidence, and self-efficacy while equipping participants with actionable tools for daily progress and intentional living. The organization has demonstrated exceptional impact with justice-involved individuals, achieving a 99% non-reincarceration rate. Based in Provo, Utah, My Story Matters relies on donations, volunteer support, and community partnerships to expand its life-changing mission. For more information, visit 

www.mystorymatters.org. 

ABOUT UTAH PHILANTHROPY DAY 

• Utah Philanthropy Day is an annual celebration recognizing outstanding philanthropic achievement in Utah. The event brings together nonprofit leaders, volunteers, donors, and corporate partners to celebrate the spirit of giving and community service. The Corporate Community Champion Award specifically honors organizations that demonstrate significant contribution to Utah communities through volunteerism, philanthropy, and corporate social responsibility.