A free Java coding boot camp known as DEVELOP(her) is an innovative program designed to increase the number of women in the tech industry. Women hold only one quarter of IT jobs, and we are focused on closing that gap.

The Hagerman Foundation continues to look for opportunities for growth and development for people of all ages. We were excited to announce the awarded grant that would allow women the opportunity to increase their skills and explore a career in technology.

In a collaborative effort, The Hagerman Foundation, Grand Circus, TEKsystems, and the Michigan Council of Women in Technology will roll out a free Java coding boot camp known as, DEVELOP(her). This boot camp is an innovative program designed to increase the number of women in the tech industry and support them as they grow in their roles.

“Women make up a little more than half of the U.S. workforce, but hold only one quarter of the IT jobs,” said Grand Circus co-founder and CEO, Damien Rocchi. “At Grand Circus, we are focused on closing that gap by making it easier for women to gain real-world experience through intensive career-changing boot camps.”

“Flint and Detroit are experiencing rapid growth in the tech sector and encouraging women to be a part of that growth is vital in creating a flourishing, diverse tech industry,” said Jocelyn Hagerman, CEO of The Hagerman Foundation. “This boot camp is just the first step in a progressive effort for greater inclusion and advancement.”