Free tech boot camp launches in low-income Miami communities

The technology education gap may be closing in Miami with the introduction of a new technology boot camp program aimed at providing training to underserved local communities.

Known as Digital Citizen, the Liberty City-based program designed by business incubator EcoTech Visions launched Tuesday with the hope of attracting residents from Overtown, Little Haiti, North Miami and other low- to medium-income neighborhoods in Miami-Dade County.

The free seven-week training program provides technical expertise training, coding classes and professional support for members interested in obtaining careers in the technology industry. EcoTech will also offer networking opportunities, partnering with groups such as global nonprofit Dress for Success to offer workshops for navigating a professional workplace.

“The program is desperately needed not only to fill the tech staffing gap but also to combat the economic hardships and growing income gap in inner-city Miami,” said Dr. Pandwe Gibson, executive director of EcoTech, in a release.

Funded in part by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Digital Citizen’s main objective is to widen the opportunities available to low-income communities as well as introduce locals to technology career paths. The Knight Center is investing $200,000 for eight boot camps over the next two years.

Applications for the program are now available for locals over the age of 18 at etvfoundation.org/digitalcitizen. Classes begin in June and take place in the evening. No previous experience is required, and students who participate will also receive a stipend. The amount has not yet been determined.

This story was originally published May 24, 2016 at 2:17 PM with the headline "Free tech boot camp launches in low-income Miami communities."