Women In Tech. Learn Code. Lead. Inspire.
Women in Tech. Learn Code. Lead. Inspire.
Thank you for your interest in Women in Tech. Our applications for 2022 are now closed
The Situation
Women have played a vital role in the growth of Tech. Ada Lovelace wrote the first algorithm. Joanna Hoffman, a Polish immigrant to America, was a founding member of MacIntosh and recognized as the person who did the “best job standing up to Steve Jobs.” In that tradition, our program creates a pathway for more women to shape the future of the world’s most impactful industry. Since 2018, Women in Tech has trained 100 women in introductory coding skills and supported 25 participants as they completed web development bootcamp.
The Program
Introduction to Web Development
Women in Tech starts with Introduction to Web Development, a 30- hour course designed for beginners that connects new coders to the world of HTML, CSS+ and Javascript. Our instructors are all program alumni working as Full Stack Developers. They teach with empathy, and participants are encouraged to ask questions and learn at their own pace. On the final day, students present a final project they have completed using their coding skills. In addition to class instruction, we allocate time for one-on-one mentorship sessions that help participants navigate through complex problems. Classes typically comprise 30 young women (be prepared to make many new friends!)
Web Development Bootcamp
After finishing the introductory course, some decide their dream job is to work as a web or app developer! IDRF offers a limited number of full-paid scholarships for participants to complete a 12-week intensive Web Development Bootcamp at Lighthouse Labs- one of our collaborative partners. Students build upon their foundational skills and learn how to use React JS, Ruby on Rails, SQL and many other programming languages. Upon completion, graduates have developed the skills to start careers as junior developers. Most of our alumni secured full-time positions within 90 days of graduating.
Our Supporters
Women in Tech started as a pilot project in 2018, thanks to the generous support of the United Way Greater Toronto as part of its Inclusive Employment strategy, which aims to improve employment opportunities for low-income individuals facing multiple barriers. Since our initial project, UWGT has provided an annual grant to fund our coding courses and provide wrap-around support for child-care, mental health care, transportation and housing. In 2022, they committed to a three-year investment in the program, which will empower even more women in the Greater Toronto Area.
After four successful years in Toronto, IDRF has expanded Women in Tech to Alberta! Thanks to the support from The Rideau Hall Foundation’s Catapult Canada Access Innovation Fund, the program is now available for women ages 18-25 in Calgary and Edmonton.
FAQs
When does the Introduction to Web Development class take place?
For those accepted into the Toronto program, classes will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 pm to 9 pm from August 3rd to September 9th. We will also hold one-on-one mentorship sessions on Saturdays.
For those accepted into the Alberta program, classes will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 4 pm to 7 pm from September 9th to October 7th. We will also hold one-on-one mentorship sessions on Saturdays.
Who is eligible for Women in Tech?
In Toronto, our program is open to women ages 18-29 that reside in the Greater Toronto Area. In Calgary and Edmonton, our program is open to women ages 17-27. Priority is given to individuals facing challenges to accessing full-time/permanent employment, unemployed or underemployed individuals, youth with large student loans and those without the financial resources to access tech education.
Are classes taught in-person or online?
What do successful applicants receive?
Those accepted into the program will receive our Introduction to Web Development course. This includes 30 hours of instruction, as well as one-on-one mentorship sessions.
If I am accepted into Women in Tech, does that mean I automatically receive a scholarship to Web Development Bootcamp?
I am a mid-career professional looking to transition into Tech. Am I eligible to apply?
I have no experience in computer science or coding. May I apply?
I am new to Canada. Am I eligible to apply?
