Outreach, Through Code

The opportunities that present themselves to an individual with tech knowledge are endless. With so much of our lives driven by technology, certain companies, industry insiders and teachers are lending a hand to make this field one that is more inclusive. According to Computerscience.org, the industry has been dominated by men even before officially entering the workforce. Boys are outnumbering girls 4:1 in taking AP computer science exams. But we expect this to change; and some organizations are looking to change this disparity. 

Women Who Code

Various organizations formed to combat this disparity. Women interested in learning how to program can turn to groups such as Girls Who Code. This organization now boasts around 10,000 members across the country. In addition to formal organizations such as Girls Who Code and SciGirls, college campuses such as Colorado State University have opened their doors and are offering free coding classes to women. More recently and globally, the US Consulate has partnered with the Africa based organization, Code 4 Cape Town. Together, they are offering free classes for 10th grade girls, in Cape Town, through March.

Refugees Who Code

In addition to the aid extended to women, organizations that realize the immense opportunities that arise with a knowledge of coding have formed to help refugees learn the craft. In the midst of a rather divisive humanitarian crisis, groups formed to offer coding classes exclusively to refugees. The United Nations is currently cooperating with SAP on their Refugee Code Week initiative. This ambitious and refreshing project has taught thousands of individuals across the Middle East to code. They hope to increase the probability of finding jobs in this modern, tech driven era.

As a result of the inclusionary efforts of these various organizations around the globe, we are able to look forward to a tech industry that will grow in size, creativity and innovation.