St. Louis-based tech organization LaunchCode has opened the enrollment for its LC101 program in Kansas City, a multiweek free coding course that prepares participants to become full-stack web developers.
Due to the current virtual format, the class has been expanded from 20 weeks to 25. Applications are due May 1, and applicants will find out whether they've been accepted into the program by May 9. The class starts June 2.
Part of LaunchCode's mission is to connect aspiring technologists to apprenticeships at area companies. Some of its past partners have included VMLY&R, Lockton Cos. and PayIt. About 85% of the apprenticeships have converted to permanent jobs with the employer.
LaunchCode also views its program as an avenue to foster entrepreneurship.
"This is really about helping create conditions in Kansas City for continued entrepreneurial success in the region," LaunchCode Executive Director Jeff Mazur said during a previous interview. "One of the things we know is true is that entrepreneurs oftentimes run into trouble growing their business when there's a lack of tech talent that helps them build and develop and market the products that they need in order for their companies to grow and thrive."
An effective way to support entrepreneurship is introducing new tech talent into the workforce, he said.
