The Heart of Gold Podcast - Episode 1: Creating Coding Careers with Mike Roberts

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Heart of Gold podcast, hosted by Jeff Winkler. Join Jeff as he shines a spotlight on nonprofits making life-changing impacts. In this episode, Jeff interviews Mike Roberts, CEO of Creating Coding Careers, based in San Diego. Mike shares insights into the unique apprenticeship program they offer, which pays students to learn coding and guarantees job placements. Learn about the differences between internships and apprenticeships, the challenges in scaling such programs, and hear inspiring stories of transformation. Whether you're interested in supporting the mission or considering a career change into tech, this episode provides valuable information and encourages community involvement. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this initiative and help create more pathways into tech careers.

00:00 Introduction to Heart of Gold Podcast

00:24 Special Offers and How to Get Involved

01:06 Introducing Today's Guest: Mike Roberts

01:28 Overview of Creating Coding Careers

02:06 The Unique Apprenticeship Model

04:56 Differences Between Internships and Apprenticeships

07:29 Mike's Journey and Motivation

10:00 Challenges and Evolution of Coding Bootcamps

15:27 The Apprenticeship Experience

22:51 Employer Success Stories

27:48 The Importance of Diversity in Tech

28:41 Personal Experiences with Underrepresentation

29:34 Challenges and Solutions for Diversity

34:03 Success Stories from the Code School

39:14 The Role of AI in Coding

45:23 Mentorship and Community Support

49:50 Future Plans and Events

51:57 Pathways to Success in Tech

Buy Creating Coding Careers bracelet:

http://heartofgoldbracelets.com

Give Money to Creating Coding Careers:

https://cccareers.org/support-new-collar-career-pathways/

Give Time (Mentorship) to Creating Coding Careers:

Email: mike@cccareers.org

Prework link for Creating Coding Careers:

https://apply.cccareers.org/?_gl=1*1tui4u2*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NDYwNDg5NTYuQ2owS0NRandsTWZBQmhDV0FSSXNBREdYZHlfRXhsdlRwbF8zaF81LWhYWEYwaWhpU255bEwyVzZLZnRVU0hkOFhnYUcyV1h4SzEwOXZUMGFBbklBRUFMd193Y0I.*_gcl_au*OTUwNjEwNjMuMTc0NjAzNTIxNA..