We're tackling problems in STEM at their roots.
Steel City Codes is a nationally-reaching 501(c)(3) nonprofit teaching elementary and middle school students computer science — completely cost-free — so that any student can take part.
Inclusivity in STEM is decreasing.
Although diversity is a talking point in corporate culture, representation in computing is actively going backward — and the roots trace to childhood.
Programs like affirmative action help, but diversity in STEM is an issue rooted in socioeconomic factors that often take hold during childhood.
Income inequality makes it worse.
Quality youth STEM programs tend to exist only when a family can pay for them. Wealthier students get more resources and opportunities, while the students who would benefit most can't access them.
Gatekeeping education behind high costs and other barriers only deepens the divide. So we removed the price tag entirely.
Our solution
Meet students where they are — with free programs and mentors who look like the future they're being invited into.
What we do
We educate elementary and middle school students in computer science through after-school chapters, summer camps, community events, and virtual hackathons — all cost-free, so any student can take advantage.
Our method
Many underrepresented students lack role models in STEM. We use peer mentorship — pairing younger students with trained high-school volunteers they can learn from and look up to.
Since 2018
Bring free CS to your community.
Start a chapter, volunteer as a mentor, or partner with us to keep it all free.