Hometown Hero: Ren Parikh
By Cindy Christy Fertsch
If you ever had a doubt about whether the “American Dream” is still attainable, Ren Parikh will assure you that it most certainly is. He achieved his dream and now he is helping others to reach their dreams.
Parikh is the Director of Ideal Institute of Technology, a growing and innovative ecosystem where work and education intersect. His vision has introduced a new path to success for the area’s youth, veterans, and others eager to expand their horizons. Students at the Ideal Institute of Technology are taught how to earn an income while learning a trade or skill set.
The institute opened its doors in 2016 in Absecon. Today, there are six locations, including two in Atlantic City, two in Pleasantville, and two in the Hamilton Mall.
“A lot of people know Ideal Institute and me as a champion for at-risk youth, out-of-school youth, or as an opportunity for youth,” shared Parikh. “After seven years, ‘my kids’ are living proof that there are no bad kids. I see kids in bad situations, but they are not bad. We just show them what they can do, provide a vision and walk the walk with them.”
On Friday, March 10, Ideal Institute of Technology broke ground on the property that once was home to The Press of Atlantic City. This 30,000-square-foot property is being transformed into an Entrepreneurship and Technology Hub.
Parikh addressed the local officials and media that gathered at the groundbreaking ceremony.
“I came to America at the age of 22, undocumented, couldn’t speak English, and came straight to Atlantic City with less than a hundred dollars in my pocket, and I knew no one. From that day until this day to having the groundbreaking for this building and this project, it has been a journey.”
Parikh’s journey is evidence that the “American Dream” is still possible and within reach for those willing to follow their passion. With hard work, determination, and vision, anything is possible. Parikh describes his first job in Atlantic City, where he worked for $3 an hour and commuted by foot 40 minutes in each direction, regardless of the weather.
Parikh taught computer technology in the early ’90s in India. After immigrating to America and settling down, he knew he wanted to make his way back to education and technology. His wife, Mital, an Atlantic City High School and Atlantic Cape Community College graduate, has been his greatest supporter. Today, Mital is an occupational therapist, and together they have three children. Parikh has received a great deal of attention from the media and local officials. All of that pales to the admiration of his daughter, who looked up at him this year and declared, “Daddy, I want to do what you’re doing.”
If you would like to learn more about the Ideal Institute of Technology, visit iitnj.com or call (609)318-8008.
