Tech volunteers inspire students through hands-on classroom coding lessons

What’s happening: Dozens of West Michigan tech professionals are volunteering in third- through fifth-grade classrooms to teach the basics of coding and inspire interest in computer science careers. The sessions, known as {MI}Code, are hosted by West Michigan Tech Talent, an industry talent council of West Michigan Works!, with mentors visiting 52 classrooms across Barry, Kent, Muskegon, and Ottawa counties.

Why it’s important: A recent study shows that nine out of 10 parents believe their children should learn more about computer science, yet only about half of U.S. public schools offer foundational computer science courses. {MI}Code Experience is working to bridge this gap by bringing technology education into classrooms with the support of tech mentors. By fostering coding skills, the program equips students to become the next generation of problem-solvers, creators, and innovators.

What they’re saying: “This experience was incredibly valuable to our students,” says Michelle Kuck, career awareness specialist for the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District. We cannot expect students to make huge life decisions in high school without having the foundational skills and knowledge to do so.  If they can’t see it, they can’t be it!  {MI} Code Experience allows students to see a career that they may not know a lot about, building awareness for the future possibilities.  All the teachers who participated in Muskegon said that they would absolutely do it again.”  

How it worked: Mentors engage with students in a fun, interactive coding activity and share their career journey in tech.

In addition to tech professionals, three of this year’s mentors are students themselves: a research assistant from Grand Valley State University and computer science majors from Michigan State University and Calvin University. Their participation demonstrates the enthusiasm of the next generation of tech talent to give back and help inspire future innovators.

What was a highlight: “Every time I run through the kids’ coding exercises myself, I start off thinking, ‘This is going to be simple.’ Then a few questions in, I find myself pleasantly challenged with an ‘aha’ moment,” says Charlie White, senior developer for SPARK Business Works. “It’s a joy to share these moments with elementary-age students coming to the same insights.”

Who’s behind it: West Michigan Tech Talent is a collaborative of technology employers, educators, workforce development, and economic development organizations working together to address talent shortages and create a robust pipeline of tech talent for the future. 

West Michigan Tech Talent began in 2014 when a group of technology employers, training providers, and community partners came together to address the region’s emerging IT talent gap. As demand for tech talent continued to grow, it became clear that a more coordinated, long-term strategy was needed. 

In 2016, several founding members established a formal board of industry leaders to guide the council’s efforts to develop a sustainable pipeline of technology professionals in West Michigan.