High School Programs

The future of our industry begins with ensuring NYC youth are not only college and career ready, but aware of the support network the 4A’s offers those seeking opportunities in the Ad industry.

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Current Programs

In 2008, the 4A’s partnered with the New York City Department of Education to form the first four-year high school in the country, exclusively dedicated to preparing students for careers in the advertising and media industry. The High School for Innovation in Advertising and Media (IAM) located in Brooklyn, New York is a fully accredited public high school, as recognized by the City and State of New York in 2012.

Upon receiving certification for this flagship school, the 4As partnered with The City University of New York in 2014 to launch the first P-Tech high school of its kind. The Manhattan Early College School for Advertising (MECA) is a six-year Career and Technical Education High School that not only gives students access to explore careers in Advertising, Media and Creative Technology, but also offers students a free Associates Degree upon completion of the program.

In addition to building advertising knowledge, the curriculum includes soft skills such as presenting and storytelling. By their junior year, students have achieved certifications in Microsoft Office as well as Adobe Creative.

For more information, please contact Al Benoit at [email protected].


Effective Talent Pipeline

We are building an innovative talent pipeline, providing the next generation of industry stars with the experience and skills to add real value.

Inventing the Future
Partnership
True Talent
Diversity
Transforming our industry with the first education programs designed specifically to prepare and inspire future advertising professionals. Delivering a strong, committed pipeline of talent to fuel agency growth and provide opportunities to develop agency employees. Preparing true talent that is industry ready: fully tested, experienced, immersed and right-skilled with big ideas and passion. Connecting with future influencers that represent communities, cultures and interests reflective of the total market.

 


Building Our Future

IAM and MECA are Career Technical and Education (CTE) high schools where electives are primarily advertising classes, including Advertising 101, Visual Communication, Graphic Design and more. Currently 700+ students in the pipeline.


Additionally, through industry engagement, students at IAM and MECA are provided with interactive learning and problem-solving lectures.

Industry Engagement Opportunities

We have a robust academic initiative that requires broad and comprehensive industry participation. We’re always looking for volunteers to join us. Let us know how you’d like to get involved.

Meet our Board of Directors
Meet Them
Meet our Steering Committee

Account Mangaement, Strategy, Media, and Creative professionals within WPP, IPG, MDC, Dentsu and 4A’s.
100+ years industry experience

Meet Them

Learn more about our high schools

iAM
HS for Innovation in Advertising & Media

MECA
Manhattan Early College for Advertising