Today’s tech industry continues to present significant challenges for underrepresented communities. Limited access to education and exclusion from key opportunities prevent many talented individuals from advancing, often simply because they don’t align with conventional expectations.. But Michael A, Founder and CEO of Rita Group, is working to change that. A first-generation American and the son of Mexican immigrants, Michael grew up in Brooklyn, where he saw firsthand the resilience and determination required to succeed. Inspired by his father’s relentless work ethic, juggling multiple jobs to support their family, Michael developed a deep commitment to creating opportunities for others. Now, he’s channeling that drive into Rita Group, a company dedicated to building a more inclusive, accessible, and community-driven future in tech.
From Self-Taught Coder to Industry Leader
Michael’s journey into tech began as a teenager when he taught himself coding. What started as curiosity quickly became a career-defining passion, leading him to transition from coding to product design and AI. Over the past 12 years, he has worked with leading organizations like NPR and NYC Tourism, where he helped shape user experiences and digital strategies.
Beyond his professional roles, Michael has mentored hundreds of aspiring technologists, providing guidance on breaking into the industry. His passion for education also led him to teach courses in tech, AI, and UX design at Kingsborough Community College. These experiences reinforced his belief that the tech industry needed a structured, accessible pathway for underrepresented communities—a belief that became the foundation of Rita Group.
Michael believes hustle is more than just working hard, it’s about creating lasting opportunities and building generational wealth. By providing tools, mentorship, and access to tech careers, Rita Group helps individuals channel their ambition into sustainable success.
Building a Tech Ecosystem for the Future
Rita Group is more than a company; it’s an ecosystem designed to equip individuals with the knowledge, tools, and networks needed to thrive in the digital world. Its three core initiatives each serve a unique purpose:
- Rita Lab: A community-driven space offering mentorship, educational resources, and networking opportunities for aspiring technologists and designers.
- Rita ABC: An AI-powered career tracker providing personalized insights and structured career pathways to help individuals navigate the tech industry.
- Rita XYZ: A platform connecting small business owners with diverse technologists to drive mission-driven projects and economic growth.
Through these initiatives, Rita Group isn’t just preparing individuals for jobs, it’s reshaping the industry to be more inclusive, diverse, and sustainable.
The Future of Tech and Education
Looking ahead, Michael envisions Rita Group as a leader in career-focused AI and education. The upcoming Rita ABC app will bring AI-driven career guidance directly into the hands of job seekers, helping them navigate the complexities of the tech world with tailored support. Meanwhile, Rita Lab’s mentorship programs are set to expand, creating more opportunities for hands-on learning with industry experts.
To further Rita Group’s impact, Michael is also launching a crowdfunding campaign to support these initiatives, ensuring that aspiring professionals, regardless of their background, have access to the education and resources they need to succeed.
Redefining Opportunity in Tech
For Michael, this work is deeply personal. His story isn’t just about his own rise in tech, it’s about breaking down barriers and opening doors for the next generation. He believes that success in tech should not be determined by privilege but by talent, hard work, and access to the right opportunities.
As the industry evolves, Michael A and Rita Group are at the forefront, proving that innovation isn’t just about technology, it’s about people. With a commitment to education, mentorship, and AI-driven solutions, Michael is shaping a future where anyone, regardless of background, can turn their aspirations into reality.
