Cracking the Code: Code Girls United

We support Code Girls United because they’re opening doors for girls across Montana to explore coding, business, and leadership. - High Stakes Foundation

Founded with a mission to bridge the gender gap in technology, this organization offers a supportive community and rigorous educational programs designed to equip girls with essential coding skills and inspire them to pursue careers in STEM fields. These programs are led by experienced instructors and industry professionals who serve as role models and mentors, demonstrating the potential and opportunities available in tech careers. Code Girls United has grown from one class to a statewide initiative reaching dozens of communities, including tribal and rural areas. It is incredible and impactful to note that 72% of CGU’s early participants have gone on to major in Computer Science or Engineering in college.

Beyond technical skills, Code Girls United places a strong emphasis on building confidence and leadership abilities. What makes the CGU program unique is its longevity and hands-on approach. Their afterschool year-long program participants work in teams to identify real-world problems that matter to them. These problems range from rural healthcare access to missing Indigenous women. The girls build mobile apps to address those issues which are problems they care about. This isn't just about learning to code; it’s about becoming a problem-solver, a communicator, and a change maker. Participants not only learn to code but also develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills through collaborative projects and activities. By fostering a supportive environment, CGU aims to empower girls to envision themselves as future leaders and innovators in technology.

At Code Girls United, we believe that introducing girls to technology at a young age changes lives, not just for those girls, but for entire communities. Our mission is to provide 4th–12th grade girls with free, afterschool and summer camp programs in computer science concepts and topics like Cybersecurity and AI, business, and app development. In a world where women are still underrepresented in tech, we are creating the next generation of confident, capable female leaders. - Code Girls United

The impact of Code Girls United extends beyond individual participants; it contributes to a broader cultural shift by challenging stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive vision of technology. By equipping girls with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in STEM fields, CGU is not only shaping the future workforce but also empowering a new generation of tech-savvy leaders who are poised to make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.

Code Girls United exemplifies the transformative power of education and community support in empowering girls and women in technology. Through its innovative programs and commitment to diversity, CGU is paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive future in the tech industry, one line of code, one girl, one coder at a time.

Mission: To expand the future career opportunities of 4th – 8th grade girls through hands on experiences in coding, technology, and business

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Support from partners like the High Stakes Foundation has been vital in helping us expand and reach more girls with the tools they need to succeed. Their belief in our mission has empowered us to grow deeper roots in Montana, sparking opportunity and confidence where it’s needed most. - Code Girls United