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Girl Power: Free training offered to metro Atlanta teen girls

By Matt Kempner
July 18, 2016

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

Matt Kempner is an award-winning journalist who seeks out intriguing twists about people and subjects beyond what the AJC might typically cover. A former columnist and editor, his past assignments have included business investigations, energy, the economy, entrepreneurs, big business, consumer spending, politics, government and the environment.

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