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Interplay Learning and DBAKE Foundation Join Forces to Launch Construction Trade Pre-Apprenticeship Programs

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New program provides earn-while-you-learn trades training for underserved participants.

AUSTIN, Texas, July 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Interplay Learning, the leading provider of immersive skilled trades training, has proudly announced its partnership with the DBAKE Foundation, a St. Louis-based non-profit organization dedicated to promoting construction trades education for underserved youth. DBAKE is integrating Interplay Academy job-ready certificate programs into their paid, six-week pre-apprenticeship program to help young people gain job-ready skills and find fulfilling careers in the skilled trades.

Founded in 2022 by general contractor Annamarie Baker, the DBAKE Foundation is on a mission to fulfill the vision of her late son, Damion Baker, by creating awareness around trades careers and providing greater access to leading career training for underrepresented residents of St. Louis.

Commencing in September 2024, DBAKE’s earn-while-you-learn, six-week pre-apprenticeship program will feature Interplay Academy job-ready certificate pathways in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, construction, multi-family maintenance, building maintenance, and appliances. Leveraging immersive 3D simulations, VR, and high-impact video content, the pathways will guide learners from zero trades skills to job-ready. Curated training paths, combined with career support and in-person instruction, will lead participants to safely work towards earning an Interplay Learning Job-Ready Certificate and industry-recognized certifications like OSHA10 and EPA 608.

“As I strive to fulfill my son’s vision and empower underserved youth in our community, DBAKE’s partnership with Interplay Learning marks a pivotal moment in our journey,” said Annamarie Baker, founder, DBAKE Foundation. “With Interplay’s innovative technology, we’re not only modernizing education; we’re increasing access to careers that will unlock so much potential in our community.”

One standout feature of Interplay Learning’s training is its video game-like approach, making learning engaging and enjoyable for participants. This innovative method resonates with today’s tech-savvy youth, facilitating their engagement with the material and comprehension of complex trade skills.

Employ St. Louis will host the inaugural class with R&R Marketplace in Dellwood, a revitalized community hub. A job fair at the end of the program will facilitate direct connections between learners and potential employers, while DBAKE Foundation’s deep industry connections to major employers and union partners will ensure that graduates can transition smoothly into structured registered apprenticeships and employment opportunities.

“At Interplay, our goal has always been to equip individuals with the tools for success in the trades,” said Doug Donovan, CEO and founder, Interplay Learning. “This partnership with the DBAKE Foundation highlights our dedication to making a real impact in communities, bridging gaps, and creating opportunities. Together, we’re forging a future where every aspiring tradesperson can thrive.”

For more information about the DBAKE Foundation and how you can donate, visit https://givebutter.com/2qP1s9 or email abaker@dbake.org

About the DBAKE Foundation
The DBAKE Foundation, established by Annamarie Baker, is a St. Louis-based non-profit organization dedicated to advancing construction trades education for underserved youth while honoring the memory of her late son, Damion Baker. Through high-quality training programs and strategic partnerships, the foundation aims to empower young people to pursue fulfilling careers in the skilled trades, thus fulfilling Damion’s vision and legacy.

About Interplay Learning
Austin-based Interplay Learning is the industry leader in immersive training solutions for the skilled trades. Interplay’s acclaimed SkillMill training platform enables rapid upskilling and empowers new technicians to be job-ready within weeks, not years. Featuring expert-led videos, hands-on 3D simulations, knowledge checks, and personalized learning paths, SkillMill is more scalable and engaging than traditional training. Leveraging advanced technologies like AI and VR, Interplay is reshaping the future of online skilled trades training, delivering highly effective learning experiences that result in better careers and better lives.

Recent accolades include Fast Company’s 2024 Most Innovative Companies in the World, AHR’s 2024 Innovation Award, Forbes’ 2023 America’s Best Startup Employers, 2022 Inc. 5000 list, and 2022 Inc. Best in Business list. Visit www.interplaylearning.com to learn more.

MEDIA CONTACT: 
Heather Ripley
Ripley PR
(865) 977-1973
hripley@ripleypr.com

 

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SOURCE Interplay Learning

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SHINE Announces Two Strategic Appointments to Advance Fusion Technology and Market Expansion

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Healthcare technology leader Dr. Gregory Sorensen joins Board of Directors; Defense expert Col. (Ret.) Gregory Van Dyk joins as Strategic Advisor

JANESVILLE, Wis., May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SHINE Technologies, LLC, a next-generation fusion technology company with commercialized platforms in industrial testing and medical isotopes, today announced the appointments of Dr. Gregory Sorensen, co-founder of DeepHealth and Chief Science Officer of RadNet, and Col. (Ret.) Gregory K. Van Dyk, U.S. Air Force, as strategic advisor to its Board of Directors.

These appointments bring deep expertise in healthcare technology and national security to SHINE as the company expands the reach of its fusion applications across commercial and defense markets.

“Fusion technology provides real-world solutions to big infrastructure problems in highly specialized markets,” said Greg Piefer, founder and CEO of SHINE. “These appointments expand our ability to understand and access these markets quickly. Dr. Sorensen is a strong addition to our already distinguished board, having rare depth in the healthcare space that spans founding, growing, and selling startups through executive operations at multinational conglomerates. Col. Van Dyk brings a career of leadership and widespread connectivity in the radiation effects testing arena, with a specific focus on the effects of DT fusion neutrons.”

Dr. Sorensen: Guiding Commercial Strategy and Innovation

Dr. Sorensen brings decades of experience at the intersection of healthcare, imaging, and technology. As co-founder of DeepHealth (now RadNet’s AI division) and former President and CEO of Siemens Healthcare North America, he has led the development and commercialization of transformative medical technologies.

He will advise SHINE on strategic growth initiatives, partnerships, and the expansion of its fusion-enabled medical isotope business.

“SHINE represents the promise of fusion – not as a science experiment, but as a real-world solution,” said Dr. Sorensen. “I’m excited and honored to help guide the company’s growth into new healthcare and commercial markets.”

Col. (Ret.) Van Dyk: Advancing National Security through Fusion

Col. (Ret.) Van Dyk, Ph.D. joins SHINE following a distinguished 22-year career in the U.S. Air Force, where he specialized in nuclear engineering, fusion technology, and strategic deterrence. He previously led the Department of Defense’s Fusion for National Security initiative and managed a $207 million annual R&D portfolio at the National Nuclear Security Administration along with leading two multi-billion-dollar programs in the Department of Defense.

His appointment comes at a critical time as SHINE expands FLARE (Fusion Linear Accelerator for Radiation Effects), a high-energy neutron testing service that enables defense contractors to evaluate the resilience of microelectronics and mission-critical systems in extreme radiation environments.

“SHINE’s fusion platform is practical, innovative, and timely,” said Van Dyk. “FLARE offers a new capability for understanding how our most important defense technologies perform under the toughest conditions.”

About SHINE 

Headquartered in Janesville, Wisconsin, SHINE is an industry leader in next-generation fusion, developing innovative fusion-based technology that combines safety, cost-efficiency and environmental responsibility. 

SHINE has successfully commercialized fusion across multiple applications, including neutron testing markets such as neutron radiography, radiation-effects testing and fusion material research. It has commercialized and is scaling its proprietary medical isotope production, processes, supplying high-quality radioisotopes essential for procedures including diagnosing heart disease and cancer as well as cancer therapy.  

Beyond these applications, SHINE is pioneering nuclear waste recycling to make nuclear energy more sustainable. Its long-term purpose is to change the way humans make energy by commercializing fusion energy. Unlike other fusion companies, SHINE takes a commercially driven path mirroring successful deep-tech industries. Through this visionary approach, SHINE is advancing technology, healthcare, and sustainable energy, making a lasting impact across multiple sectors. 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/shine-announces-two-strategic-appointments-to-advance-fusion-technology-and-market-expansion-302462344.html

SOURCE SHINE Technologies, LLC

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HitPaw FotorPea V4.6.0 Now Available – Major Upgrades in AI Enhancement and Image Generation

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NEW YORK, May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HitPaw has officially released HitPaw FotorPea V4.6.0, bringing significant advancements in AI-powered image enhancement and generation. This latest version introduces a new denoise model, a revamped AI painting engine powered by Flux AI Generator, and smarter photo quality analysis — all designed to deliver professional-grade results for photography enthusiasts and creative professionals alike.

What’s New in HitPaw FotorPea V4.6.0

1. New Advanced Denoise Model

Tailored for advanced users, the newly added denoise model is capable of handling complex noise scenarios such as portrait photography and high-ISO images. It effectively removes visual noise while preserving original image details, making it ideal for photographers, retouchers, and creatives who require high-fidelity results in challenging lighting conditions or legacy photo restoration.

2. Revamped AI Painting with Flux AI Generator

The AI painting module has been completely reengineered, now integrated with AI-assistive prompt suggestions and powered by the Flux AI image generator. This empowers digital artists, designers, and hobbyists to create artwork from text prompts with greater precision, style diversity, and creative control — whether for concept art, storyboarding, or social media content creation.

3. Enhanced Photo Enhancer Capabilities

The Photo Enhancer now includes:

AI-powered noise detection: Automatically identifies noise levels and recommends the optimal denoise model, saving users time and improving editing accuracy — especially helpful for casual users unfamiliar with technical noise reduction techniques.True resolution analysis: Detects the image’s native resolution to improve upscaling results, making it perfect for users working with downloaded images, scanned photos, or old digital files that need clarity restoration.

These enhancements significantly boost the clarity and quality of post-processed images.

More AI-Powered Features in HitPaw FotorPea

Smarter AI Image Generation with DeepSeek AI: Create sharper, more realistic images from text prompts with enhanced detail, lighting, and artistic control.

AI Enhancer: Upgrade image clarity, color, and detail with intelligent adjustments.

AI Background Remover: Remove and replace backgrounds in one click.

AI Object Remover: Eliminate distractions and refine image composition.

AI Photo Editing: Smart tools for adjusting contrast, color, tone, and effects.

COMPATIBILITY AND PRICING

HitPaw FotorPea is compatible with Windows 11/10/8/7 (64-bit) and macOS 10.15 and above. Pricing starts at $21.99 USD for a monthly subscription.

For more information, visit: Purchase HitPaw FotorPea for Windows

ABOUT HITPAW

HitPaw is a trusted multimedia software brand dedicated to empowering users with innovative solutions for photo, video, and audio editing. With cutting-edge AI technology and user-friendly design, HitPaw makes creativity accessible to everyone.

Learn more at: About HitPaw – All Things About HitPaw

CONNECT WITH US

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hitpawFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hitpawofficialX (Twitter): https://x.com/HitPawofficialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hitpawofficial/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/HitPawofficialwebsite

This release was issued through Send2Press® on behalf of the news source. For more information, visit Send2Press Newswire at https://www.send2press.com/.

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SOURCE HitPaw. Co., Ltd

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The Atlanta Journal-Constitution debuts new membership tier for UATL

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ATLANTA, May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) today announced the next chapter of its Black culture product, UATL, with a new paid tier that will offer members expanded access to events, content and discounts designed to build community and connection.

Launched in September 2024, UATL has built a community membership program and an engaged social media following through distinct journalism, unique perks and exclusive events.

Today, UATL introduced a new “supporting member” program for those who want to connect more deeply with all things Black culture. For $5 a month, supporting members get unlimited access to all articles on UATL.com, early invites to UATL events, the ability to bring a guest to select events and access to exclusive discounts at Scotty ATL, Just Loafn, Seed Atlanta, Trap Museum, Breakfast Boys and more. This adds to UATL’s existing free member benefits: a weekly newsletter, three monthly articles, and select event invitations.

UATL is a key part of the AJC’s plan to transform from a storied daily newspaper into a modern media company. AJC Editor-In-Chief Leroy Chapman Jr. said it’s been exciting to see how Atlanta has welcomed UATL into the fold.

“For the last several months, we have consistently heard from members asking: How can we help this community grow?” he said. “This is a natural next step that will help us deepen our connection to the community and expand our contribution to this culture, which continues to shape the world.”   

Starting today, supporting members can sign up to receive:

Unlimited access to every article on UATL.com. Enjoy all UATL has to offer from 404ward a signature series that recognizes the people and brands moving Atlanta forward to thought-leading content like “Atlanta: America’s Black Mecca?” a new series exploring the reasons and justifications behind the city’s moniker.Early invites to UATL events. Member events are designed to connect you with the culture, including movie nights, suite parties and happy hour connections. They sell out, so getting early access (and a plus-one) is key.Perks and discounts that help support local and Black-owned businesses.Ticket giveaways to Atlanta’s top sporting events.One bonus account with a separate login to share.

Membership Rates

Supporting Membership is $5 a month or $49 a yearSpecial Founding Member Offer is $39 a year for a limited time.Get the combined UATL+AJC subscription for $11.99 a month.Visit UATL.com to explore available plans

About The Atlanta Journal-Constitution 

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution is the most essential and engaging source of information for metro Atlanta. With approximately 6 million monthly unique visitors to our digital products and platforms and a growing digital subscriber base, the AJC serves one of the most dynamic, diverse and influential cities in America. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution is a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Cox Enterprises Inc. For more information, visit http://www.ajc.com

Media Contact
Shumuriel Ratliff
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Shumuriel.Ratliff@coxinc.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-atlanta-journal-constitution-debuts-new-membership-tier-for-uatl-302462362.html

SOURCE The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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