Coding class to help jump-start programming careers
The UMKC School of Computing and Engineering is teaming up with LaunchCodeKC to provide coding classes to individuals in Kansas City.
LaunchCodeKC is a nonprofit organization that partners with companies to offer paid apprenticeships and jobs for aspiring developers and technologists. Building on momentum since officially launching in February, LaunchCodeKC will host its first “Launch Your Career” event for anyone in the Kansas City area interested in learning more about a career in tech. The event will be from noon – 5 p.m., Saturday, March 12 at Union Station, 30 W. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, Missouri.
“At the UMKC School of Computing and Engineering we believe we have a greater responsibility to our community and corporate partners to support growth in the fields of technology and engineering,” said Kevin Truman, dean of the UMKC School of Computing and Engineering. “By offering this free, beginner-level course we hope to jump-start the careers of individuals who may have a natural talent for programming but have not otherwise had the opportunity to develop their skills.”
On average, a LaunchCode placement makes three times his or her previous salary and nine out of 10 LaunchCode apprentices are converted into full-time employees within three months.
“Kansas City’s tech scene is booming, but in order to continue building momentum, we have to fill local job openings with local tech talent,” said Kathryn Golden, candidate recruitment manager. “No matter your skill level, if you are interested in a job in tech, you’ll want to attend LaunchCode’s Launch Your Career day. The majority of our successful candidates have no prior coding experience. LaunchCode will help qualified candidates who are willing to put in the time and work to learn computer science skills find a pathway to a job in tech.”
Brendan Lind, LaunchCode’s executive director, said the organization has already signed on dozens of employers who are looking to hire through LaunchCode. The next step is to find and train candidates who can fill those roles.
In addition to learning about job opportunities through LaunchCode, attendees will be able to register for CS50x Kansas City, a free 16-week computer science class offered through partnerships with the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, UMKC School of Computing and Engineering, HarvardX, edX and Vocareum.
LaunchCode’s Kansas City office is located at the Sprint Accelerator in the Crossroads Arts District.