Netflix has partnered with Norfolk State University to provide a 16-week bootcamp for recent graduates interested in entering the tech industry. Set to begin in January, the program will be open to 130 students at the Virginia university. The program will be split in to the following tracks: java engineering, UX/UI design and data science. While students apply to the program and select their tracks, Netflix professionals will collaborate with the education platform, 2U, to design each track. Rounding out the program, Norfolk State faculty and guest lecturers will teach the material to budding tech professionals.
“The goal is for participants to come away better equipped with industry-relevant skills to enter today’s workforce and with valuable, long-lasting relationships,” Netflix's Kabi Gishuru said.
“As we continue to invest in building the best service for our members, we want to invest in the best team to support it. Creating space in the industry for all voices will only make it stronger.”
In addition to the 16-week program, scholars will be paired with mentors in the tech industry. Leading the way, Netflix senior software engineer and Norfolk State University alum Michael Chase has been a major driving force in creating this program. Chase has been vocal about the role tech mentors played in gaining career opportunities at IBM and now, Netflix.
“The summer after my junior year at Norfolk State University, I was invited to join an IBM networking program where I was paired with a mentor, a first-year software developer. Our conversations showed me all the opportunities available after graduation and helped me focus on my desire to code. When it ended, I was able to interview at IBM for what would become my first full-time job” Chase said.
Applications are now available to Norfolk State graduates of the classes of 2019 and 2020.
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