New coding initiative announced in Northeast Tennessee
Appalachian Coding Collective, funded by a federal grant, will bring much-needed training to the region's employers and employees.
FoundersForge, a regional non-profit entrepreneur center that is dedicated to supporting underdog entrepreneurs, is bringing affordable coding classes to the Appalachian region.
Through an initiative named the Appalachian Coding Collective, the Johnson City-based organization has formed an alliance with key partners to offer software development education to individuals who may not otherwise have access to these opportunities. The initiative is supported by a Rural Development Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
In addition to FoundersForge, other regional partners include Erwin Utilities, East Tennessee State University’s College of Business and Technology, Cloud Wise Academy, Northeast State Community College, Sync Space Entrepreneur Center, and Langston Centre.“As our region continues to grow, it will be ever more important to build a workforce that meets the future economy’s demands,” FoundersForge explains in a news release. “In the last few months alone, the world has seen an explosion of growth in artificial intelligence, automation tools, and new demands for technology-centric talent. It is important that Northeast Tennessee meets these future demands for our region to continue to thrive.”The initial courses offered are focused on website development, no-code UI/UX layout fundamentals, mobile app development, and coding fundamentals. All courses are focused on building real-world products and creating a solid foundation attendees can continue to build on.Registration for the first set of coding courses is currently open and classes begin on April 13. Evening classes will be held twice per week in Erwin. For more information on the Appalachian Coding Collective and registration details, click here.
