Mayor Rahm Emanuel and the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership announced Chicago Codes, a new program designed to meet the growing need for computer programmers and strengthen the city’s growing tech sector. Launching this year, Chicago Codes is a tuition-free technology development and coding academy. Students will complete rigorous industry-approved curriculum, secure software development internships with local firms and ultimately move on to permanent employment. The program was made possible through a $500,000 grant from The Rockefeller Foundation and a $250,000 investment from the Mayor’s 2018 budget to offer employer-driven tech boot camps at no cost and expand employer outreach, education, and services to promote hiring based on individual skills rather than degree attainment. Programs would last 12 to 32 weeks and include four to 12 weeks paid work experience. The program will leverage the expertise and support of the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, with input from the business community, including Microsoft, the Illinois Technology Association, and World Business Chicago’s ChicagoNEXT council.