Registration now open for inaugural 'Let's Code Algoma' bootcamp

NEWS RELEASE
SAULT STE. MARIE INNOVATION CENTRE
*************************
Registration is now open for Sault Ste. Marie’s first ever Let’s Code Algoma iOS bootcamp taking place from April 3 to June 1, hosted by the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre (SSMIC). Let’s Code Algoma is an intensive eight-week bootcamp for students and young professionals between the ages of 18-29 in the computer science, programming or software fields in Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma region. Registration closes on Monday, March 19.

“The Let’s Code Algoma bootcamp is a great opportunity for you to learn how to develop iOS apps using Xcode and the Swift programming language. You will also learn about software engineering techniques, team collaboration, and get hands on experience with tools used by software development companies,” said Joshua McColeman, Let’s Code Algoma program mentor, and president and chief executive officer with Digital Grounds Inc., a local tech business.

During the eight-week bootcamp, Let’s Code Algoma participants will learn iOS development, Swift, Xcode, UI, multiple view controllers, integrating web content, and much more that will help strengthen and grow existing ICT (Information and Communications Technology) skills and knowledge. Upon completion of the bootcamp, individuals will receive a certificate that will help with career growth and future opportunities, including self-employment.

“The bootcamp uses a project-based teaching approach which means you will be hands-on from start to end. Not only will you be building an app yourself, the app you build is a real-life app that will be going on the iTunes app store!” continued McColeman.

Let’s Code Algoma was designed to benefit young professionals with varying levels of experience and interest in software development, computer programming and computer science knowledge. The program may also influence decision makers at the post-secondary level to adapt program courses accordingly to ensure relevant skills are being taught to increase the employability of new graduates.

“Overall, the expectations of Let’s Code Algoma are to fill identified skills gaps within the region’s ICT industry and increase the talent pool for companies looking to hire individuals with specific skillsets, across all sectors and industries,” said John Prgomet, business development manager, SSMIC. “A more employable workforce and increase in youth employment in the ICT sector will keep our youth local and support economic development in the region.”

Let’s Code Algoma will include nine hours of class time per week, and will be held at SSMIC’s Accelerator Hub, a local incubator for science and technology startups and accelerating businesses (258 Queen St. E, Sault Ste. Marie). The Accelerator Hub is an established office environment that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, giving participants a real office experience. Cost is only $150, and will be reimbursed upon successful completion of the bootcamp. It is an affordable and accessible program that is comparable in content and format to bootcamps in larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver where tuition can be anywhere from $1000 to $10,000 and require travel or extended stay.

Let’s Code Algoma is a program developed by the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre, funded by Ontario Centre for Workforce Innovation (OCWI).

Visit here for details and to apply today!

*************************