The University of Central Arkansas established the Arkansas Coding Academy (ACA) in order to stay on top of advancing technology. As part of UCA’s Division of Community Outreach and Community Engagement, the academy will provide turnkey education and training opportunities to individuals seeking new careers in information technology.
The ACA is a six or three-month boot camp for individuals interested in learning how to code. The program covers the building blocks of Java and Android OS. ACA wants to provide individuals with the skills and mentorship to succeed in the technology industry, and create a talent pipeline from classroom to workforce. Classes are available both full-time and part-time.
“The Arkansas Coding Academy will not only fill a void in the state for an educated workforce in the areas of technology and computer programming but will also provide the talent that our new tech startup and existing companies need around the state,” said President Tom Courtway.
Several tech companies and other organizations have partnered with UCA in this venture to provide funds and accessibility for prospective students. Partners include, but are not limited to, Metova, Acxiom, the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, Arkansas Department of Workforce Services, JB Hunt, First Orion and Rock Fish.
“By producing technical talent to local employers, we are not only educating Arkansans, but we are providing these new developers the chance to stay in Arkansas,” ACA Director Mary Dunlap ’14 said. “The accelerated nature of the program also allows students to gain their education and be propelled into the workforce in the matter of a few months.”
For a complete list of partners and information about how to apply to the coding academy, visit arkansascodingacademy.com