Baseball Star Partners with EFI in New Educational Program

Electronics For Imaging Inc. (EFI) announces it is collaborating with the Mariano Rivera Foundation to support a printing training program for underserved minority youth. The foundation, led by Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Mariano Rivera, is said to be providing in-depth, hands-on technology training for high-demand graphic arts and imaging technology jobs. According to EFI, it is providing financial and technical training support to the foundation as it further expands its efforts to provide youth with a path into careers.

According to the foundation, its new graphic arts industry-sponsored activities began earlier this year with a training program in Gainesville, Florida, and will continue its activities through a new Mariano Rivera Foundation center to be built in New Rochelle, New York.

“We are excited to partner with EFI and printers who believe in equipping the next generation, especially those who are marginalized and have limited access to resources,” says Rivera. “Together we can change the trajectory of students across the nation, creating opportunities for a better future.”

Rivera will discuss both his career and his work with his foundation in a special presentation at Connect 2022, EFI’s annual users’ conference taking place Jan. 17-21 at the Wynn Las Vegas Resort.

According to the foundation, Rivera’s initial vision to offer digital print design and IT vocational training aligns with the purpose of the foundation he co-founded with his wife, Clara — creating a reality where each child is afforded an opportunity to see beyond their circumstances and discover new ways to confidently create a better life.

The foundation’s new print education and mentorship offerings focus on skills needed to prepare young people for careers in the MFP service technician, design, and print production fields.

Created in 1998, the foundation provides young people with life skills and educational opportunities that prepare them to succeed in life. The future 40,000-square-foot New Rochelle facility will mark its journey toward a community-centered hub for youth training efforts in multiple industries.

“The Mariano Rivera Foundation is providing a pathway to attract new, skilled talent sorely needed in the print and imaging industry with skills training and mentorship,” says Frank Mallozzi, EFI’s chief revenue officer. “Mariano is the definition of ‘closer,’ a professional who gets it done no matter the obstacles. Given his dedication, commitment and drive for success, we are excited to support the important work he and Clara are doing to help underserved minority youth get on a path to win in life.”