Embracing Diversity: How Code to Career Is Opening Doors in Tech

In the digital age, the tech industry shapes economies, cultures, and everyday life. But, a glaring gap in diversity within the sector undercuts its potential. Along with our partner, BrainStation, we developed Code to Career because we recognize that true innovation and economic prosperity in Canada relies on having a highly skilled, digitally literate population that is as diverse as the people in it. That’s why we are deeply committed to making tech education accessible to everyone, particularly for individuals from communities who continue to be underrepresented in tech.

Why Diversity in the Workplace Matters

Diversity initiatives help ensure that the workforce reflects the demographics of the broader society, which contributes to social justice. They provide opportunities for people from varied backgrounds to participate and succeed in the workplace, promoting equity and reducing systemic barriers related to race, gender, age, and other characteristics​.

Companies that champion diversity are often seen as more attractive employers and are likely to draw talent from a wider pool, benefiting from a richer variety of skills and experiences. From a business perspective, a diverse workforce can better understand and connect with a diverse customer base which translates into a more impressive bottom line. Diverse organizations often outperform their less diverse counterparts. Studies by McKinsey and BCG have consistently shown that companies with diverse workforces are more likely to report higher profitability and innovation. This is because diverse teams bring a variety of perspectives and problem-solving approaches, which can lead to more creative solutions and effective decision-making​ (McKinsey & Company)​​ (BCG Global)​.

Embracing diversity is not just ethically sound—it’s also key to unlocking potential and fostering a sustainable and dynamic business environment.

Code to Career’s Inclusive Mission

Enter Code to Career. A national skilling initiative that subsidizes Software Engineering bootcamps to provide training to individuals in Canada who continue to be underrepresented in tech. Through the bootcamp, students learn in-demand skills and become equipped to launch a new career as a Software Engineer.

Tech Training for Individuals from Underrepresented Communities in Canada

Code to Career aims to train 800 individuals from coast to coast to coast, and is focused on supporting individuals from communities that continue to be underrepresented in tech. Currently, we are enrolling:

• Individuals from underrepresented genders
  • Individuals from underrepresented genders include cis women, trans women, trans men, non-binary people, and others who are marginalized because of their gender identity or expression from AB, BC, MB, NL, NS, NT, NU, ON, PE, SK, and YT. With an additional focus on those individuals from underrepresented genders who are also Black, Indigenous, other Racialized people, and newcomers.
    
• Indigenous Individuals
  • Indigenous individuals from AB, BC, MB, NL, NS, NT, NU, ON, PE, SK, and YT.
    
• Individuals from underrepresented regions of Canada
  • Individuals from Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia, PEI, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. With an additional focus on those individuals who are from underrepresented regions who are also Black, other Racialized people, and newcomers.

Establishing Support from Coast-to-Coast-to-Coast

As we make our way around the country connecting with local communities and launching Code to Career throughout the year, we’re nurturing a growing wave of support from a diverse group of stakeholders. Business leaders, community ambassadors, and elected officials are all rallying to champion the initiative, which highlights the widespread enthusiasm and backing for the talent development it promises. This broad-based support underscores the tech community’s commitment to fostering an environment that nurtures and celebrates emerging skills and innovation.

Inspiring Success Stories from Alumni

Code to Career takes pride in the rich and varied paths our alumni come from which are just as varied as where they’re going. We take pride in showcasing their stories and share their journeys because of how important it is for others to see themselves in our alumni, like Nyajal Wal, who worked as a recreational therapist before entering the program, and Sheela Hamdad, who made a move into software engineering after a career in dental sales. These stories not only highlight individual achievements but also underscore our role in enabling career shifts that contribute meaningfully to diversifying tech. We strongly believe that if you see it, you can be it.

Removing Financial Barriers

We address economic barriers head-on by offering a significant scholarship to those admitted thanks to funding from UpSkill Canada [powered by Palette Skills] and the Government of Canada. The monetary value of the bootcamp is $16,500 and because most of it is funded through the program, the cost to learners is a $250 tuition contribution. This support enables access to the bootcamp and alleviates the financial stress often associated with intensive, full-time training.

Looking Forward: Career Support

The journey doesn’t stop with training; our partners at BrainStation provide support to graduates with a goal of finding meaningful employment in the tech industry by drawing on their vast network of hiring partners. Career support starts on day 1 of the program and continues up to 6-months post graduation.

Your journey starts now and we’re here for you.

As we look to the future, Code to Career is expanding its reach and deepening its impact and we couldn’t be more excited. Join us in and be part of our mission to reshape the tech landscape into one that truly reflects the diversity of our society, fostering innovation that benefits everyone. 
Ready to take the next step? Apply today at www.codetocareer.ca