COOKEVILLE – 100 Girls of Code, a program of the Tennessee Code Academy, will conduct workshops across Tennessee this summer to raise awareness among girls ages 12-18 about careers in computer science. The Biz Foundry in Cookeville will host the one-day workshop from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. June 26.
The summer program – sponsored by Tennessee Tech University and Launch Tennessee – will help girls garner interest in computer programming, web development, gaming and computer applications. According to the U.S. Labor Department, only 12 percent of employees in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields are women.
“Educators and workforce development professionals are beginning to realize the need for these skill sets,” said Sammy Lowdermilk, program director of TN Code Academy. “Our efforts in Tennessee are to get not only females, but all youth interested in the computer sciences.”
The 100 Girls of Code workshops will include an introduction to computer programming, a tutorial of the latest website development techniques and a start at the most innovative gaming development strategies – all taught by two female programmers. Lunch will also be provided at each workshop. Only 25 slots are available at each location.
Other 100 Girls of Code camps taking place in Tennessee this summer included Memphis (June 9), Jackson (June 12), Nashville (June 16), Spring Hill (June 17) and Chattanooga (June 23). Camps will also be held in Knoxville (June 30) and Oak Ridge (July 1).
For information about how to register or get involved, visit www.100girlsofcode.com. You may also contact Lowdermilk at Sammy@tncodeacademy.com.
