Georgia high school girls get free summer career training in tech

Sixteen-year-old Olivia Podber wanted to become a doctor. Then she signed up for a new program offering free tech training to teen girls in metro Atlanta.

Now, she’s thinking about majoring in computer science.

More girls — including many who have no particular interest or expertise in tech fields — are getting a close up of what it takes to crack that corner of the economy. About 80 girls were selected for the inaugural summer program offered in metro Atlanta by the nonprofit Girls Who Code.

Several participants I spoke with said tech wasn't what they expected. One compared coding to learning another language. Others related it to creating art or writing a story.

ExploreFind out more about the free program and how companies say they are having trouble attracting tech workers, particularly those who are women, in my latest Unofficial Business column.

About the Author

More of the AJC’s in-depth coverage of Atlanta’s plans for international event

‘The only thing that changes is how we deliver it’

As the AJC nears the end of its print chapter, some of the reporters, editors and photographers who make the AJC reflect on their “big break" moments.

Georgia sees one of the highest rises in life expectancy in the nation

Georgia's life expectancy rose more sharply than most U.S. states as the coronavirus pandemic receded, according to the latest CDC data, but still has ground to make up.

The Latest