AI-Driven Creative Skills for Tomorrow’s Success
We equip underrepresented communities with the tools they need for career success and long-term economic stability. Experience hands-on labs, community festivals, and inclusive learning where art and tech converge so everyone can own their digital future.
What is Ascending Pathways
Ascending Pathways Inc. is a Chicago-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2025 to bridge advanced technologies with the arts, sciences, and emerging workforce fields for the greater Chicago area. We empower underrepresented and underserved communities by leveraging AI technology and other innovative tools to deliver essential job-skills training, creative arts experiences, and workforce development programs. Our goal is to break down language and educational barriers so individuals can gain the knowledge and support needed for career success, creative expression, and economic stability. Our founders bring extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and technology innovation, positioning Ascending Pathways as a dynamic and credible partner for inclusive, technology-driven community programs.
Our Missions
Ascending Pathways expands opportunity and equity by empowering individuals—especially those from underserved and historically underrepresented communities—to gain the skills, knowledge, and support needed for career success, creative expression, and economic stability. We combine innovative workforce development and senior service programs with inclusive, hands-on experiences—such as public festivals, interactive labs, culinary training, business education, creative arts, and entrepreneurship initiatives—to break down barriers to employment and participation. By leveraging advanced technologies, including AI, across the arts, sciences, and emerging workforce fields, we make our resources accessible to all, ensuring that language and learning differences are never obstacles to opportunity.
Develop a Pathway to Success
We provide language-accessible education, comprehensive career support, entrepreneurial resources, and strong partnership networks to empower individuals for long-term economic growth.
What Makes us Different
At Ascending Pathways Inc., we redefine workforce development by merging cutting-edge AI accessibility, creative art, personalized career support, entrepreneurial empowerment, and strategic ecosystem networking. Our approach removes barriers and opens doors for individuals who have historically been underserved.
Traditional workforce programs leave many behind due to language barriers. We remove this limitation. With VowChats, an advanced AI-powered translation service, we provide real-time, multi-language access to all our training programs. No matter the language someone speaks, they can fully engage, learn, and thrive. Our commitment to inclusivity ensures that every voice is heard, every skill is valued, and every opportunity is accessible.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Our team, deeply rooted in the communities we serve, offers personalized career guidance that meets people where they are—whether they are entering the workforce for the first time, changing careers, or overcoming systemic barriers. From resume-building and interview coaching to career pathway planning, we equip individuals with the tools they need to succeed.
A job isn’t the only route to financial stability—entrepreneurship is a powerful tool for economic independence. We empower individuals with business training, mentorship, and access to funding opportunities. From crafting business plans and managing finances to mastering marketing strategies, we help aspiring entrepreneurs turn their visions into reality and build sustainable businesses that contribute to the local economy.
Success doesn’t happen in isolation—it thrives in a network of support. We bridge the gap between individuals and the businesses, organizations, and resources that help them move forward. Through strategic partnerships, we create direct access to jobs, internships, mentorship, funding, and entrepreneurial collaborations, ensuring that our participants don’t just find opportunities—they are connected to a thriving ecosystem that propels them forward.
Ascending Pathways Inc. is more than just a workforce development organization—we are a movement toward lasting economic mobility. By harnessing AI-driven inclusivity, deep community expertise, and a network of opportunity, we empower individuals with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to thrive.
Let’s break barriers. Let’s create pathways. Let’s build futures—together.
Our Program & Services
Creative Art + AI
Workforce Development Program
Culinary Trainning Program
12 week Trainning program with SafeServ Certicate at t…
Affordable Meal Program
Deliver high-quality, nutritious food at to the community
Our Team
Chettha Saetia
Board Director
Chief Executive Officer
Nathan Chen
Board Director
Chief Operating Officer
Frank Wang
Board Director
Chief Technology Officer
Phillip Thigpen
Board Director
Program Director
Kevin Amaro
Board Director
Program Director
Contact us
Get in Touch with us
We’d love to hear from you! Reach out for any inquiries or support.
info@ascendingpathways.org
Phone
(312) 929-6032
Office
Chicago, IL