The CNX Mentorship Academy is committed to helping high school juniors and seniors with career exploration and preparation through mentorship to connect graduates to family-sustaining, well-compensated careers in the region without the requirement of a four-year degree.
Given the abundance of low-cost energy, manufacturing prowess, and deeply ingrained work ethic in Appalachia, these careers – and opportunities to build and sustain the middle class – are plentiful in our region.

CNX’s Mentorship Academy addresses the region’s workforce challenges by connecting the region’s premier employers, organized labor and building trades, and community-focused nonprofits with local, emerging talent seeking family-sustaining jobs.

Academy participants learn from local leaders and industry experts about the numerous career options available to them through hands-on activities, tours, and personal and professional coaching.

The Academy was founded in 2021 by CNX’s CEO Nick Deluliis to help young people realize their full potential and discover opportunities for upward mobility to which they never knew they had access.

FAQ

How do I enroll in the program?
Enrollment is available to high school juniors and seniors at participating high schools within Southwest Pennsylvania (Allegheny County, Armstrong County, Greene County, Indiana County, Washington County, and Westmoreland County). Students attending a participating school should speak with their school counselor to sign up.
How do I get my school involved?
The Mentorship Academy is currently at capacity. Please complete the interest form below to be notified when new spots are available.
How much does it cost to participate in the program?
There are no fees for student or school district participation. All we ask is for a commitment to trying new things and consistent engagement.
How does this program differentiate from other programs focused on career exploration?
Participants of the Mentorship Academy engage in a year-long program receiving behind the scenes, hand-on opportunities to learn about various entry level roles across various industries. Participants are connected to industry leaders to build their professional network and have opportunities to make last impressions to increase opportunities for employment directly out of high school.

Academy graduates also have access to our Alumni Service network which continues to provide mentorship and resource connection.

Follow the Mentorship Academy on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to experience the students’ journey throughout the program.

Academy Partners

The Mentorship Academy partners with companies and institutions across the region to showcase and inform the students of various career options available. We are proud to work alongside the following:

The Mentorship Academy partners with various companies beyond the list above. If you are interested in joining the Academy as a hiring partner, please contact CNXMentorshipAcademy@cnx.com

Our School District Partners

Allegheny

  • Baldwin High
  • Cornell High
  • Keystone Oaks
  • Passport Academy
  • South Allegheny
  • Steel Valley
  • Sto Rox
  • West Allegheny

Armstrong

  • Apollo Ridge
  • Armstrong
  • Freeport Area
  • Leechburg Area
  • Lenape Tech
  • West Shamokin (Armstrong SD)

Greene

  • Waynesburg Central
  • West Greene

Indiana

  • Homer Center
  • River Valley

Washington

  • California Area
  • Trinity Area
  • Washington High

Westmoreland

  • Greensburg Salem
  • Hempfield Area
  • Jeannette City
  • Kiski Area
  • Monessen
  • Penn Trafford

Differentiated Approach to ESG

The Mentorship Academy embodies our Tangible, Impactful, Local ESG strategy and sets our region’s youth on pathways to success that benefit both the community and CNX.

Tangible

The Mentorship Academy is focused on making real and measurable differences in the communities we serve. The success of the Academy is more than the program content. It is the collaborative effort of partners and community relationships within the Appalachian region. Our commitment to career exploration, career preparation, and career connection often requires us to think outside of the box to generate innovative approaches to workforce entry for our young adults.

Impactful

The Mentorship Academy seeks to identify true needs within our community so our support will have an immediate and long-lasting impact in helping specific programs within the region meet their goals.

Our partners align with the values of the Academy and promote positive influences within the region. Partners are committed to the development of youth within our region and connecting graduates to various opportunities.

Community

The Mentorship Academy efforts are rooted in supporting communities in our operational footprint so we can foster more opportunities for growth, close to home.

The collaboration of community organizations and partnering school districts provide direct support to the region, our students and families.

Key partnerships include: Community College of Allegheny County and the Mentoring Partnership of Southwest PA.