A new coding school dedicated to combating gender disparity in the technology field has launched. The Grace Hopper Academy, named after computer science pioneer Grace Hopper, is an all-women school designed to provide high-quality education with no upfront cost.
The new school comes out of the Fullstack Academy, a coding school based out of New York that provides a project-based educational structure, along with advanced curriculum on emerging technologies.
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“Technology has become intrinsic in our daily routines, regardless of gender, but the tech industry remains exceedingly male-dominated,” said David Yang, cofounder of Fullstack Academy. “We have always been inspired by innovation and it seems peculiar that an industry revolutionized by a pioneer like Grace Hopper would remain so divided along gender lines.”
The academy curriculum will be based off of Fullstack’s program and educational structure, and will not ask for tuition costs until after students secure a job. Shanna Gregory, an employer outreach manager at Fullstack, will lead the new school as the Grace Hopper Academy’s new Dean.
“I’ve seen firsthand how the right education can transform someone’s career and reshape their life,” said Gregory. “Women are underrepresented in the tech sector, and they are in no way less qualified than their male counterparts. At Grace Hopper Academy, we’re creating a supportive environment for women interested in becoming software engineers, with a tuition model that makes the opportunity accessible to everyone.”
The first set of classes will begin Jan. 11, 2016.