The impact technology has on our everyday lives is undeniable. Innovation in technology is often unanticipated but always impactful. As technology becomes more prevalent in our daily lives new jobs are created in conjunction. Unfortunately many of these jobs created within the high tech industry, for various reasons, have left certain group of people behind. The groups left behind consist mainly of people of color with the exception of Asians. Black and Hispanics are largely underrepresented in the tech fields relative to the population; however there is an organization working to change that.
Code 2040 is a group dedicated to teaching young people of color, mainly black and latinx people, how to code and gain the skills necessary to land prestigious jobs within tech. Their name is based on projections that the US population will be a majority-minority country by that time period and their goal is to ensure that black and latinx young people are given opportunities to compete in a world that is increasingly tech focused. The program has provided tremendous opportunities for minorities enrolled in college to enhance their skills in tech and give them potential career opportunities. The program has gained enough notoriety to receive sponsorships from companies like: Airbnb, Slack, PwC, Github and Google. Established companies providing sponsorship serve as additional proof that Code2040 has a goal worth pursuing.
It is just a start and a summer program is no guarantee that students will be able to work in tech; however, the experience provides an excellent opportunity for students to experience the world of tech like they never have before. Even if the kids decide not to pursue a career in tech, the experiences will be invaluable for their future. Make sure to check out their website for more information.
