By Quin Welch, Building Kentucky
We Lead CS – a first-of-its-kind virtual computer science career academy serving students from throughout Kentucky – announced Sept. 26 that, as it launches its push to recruit 300 new students for the 2025-26 academic year, the organization will offer $100,000 in microgrants to chambers of commerce throughout the state to work with businesses and schools to identify which employers are searching for tech talent in order to fill the Commonwealth’s readily available, high-paying tech jobs.
As part of the microgrant program, We Lead CS will also ask chambers to work with businesses to outline the skills needed to fuel the tech talent pipeline to those particular businesses. Chambers will also work to bring employers and We Lead CS students together for internship opportunities during the students’ high school years.
“Chambers across the Commonwealth know their businesses better than anyone, so we are asking them to take the lead,” said Alicia Sells, We Lead CS CEO. “The average tech job in Kentucky pays nearly $80,000 per year, and because these jobs are in such high demand, we need to work hand in hand with our business community to fuel that pipeline.”
Additionally, We Lead CS announced its partnership with the INTERalliance, a nonprofit coalition of employers dedicated to helping students explore information technology careers. The INTERalliance will connect We Lead CS students with virtual work-based learning and internship opportunities with companies in Kentucky.
“We Lead CS is breaking down barriers for students from across Kentucky – especially in rural areas – to receive tech education,” said Chris Schmidt, co-chair of the INTERalliance. “The INTERalliance cracked the code on how to put high school students to work in tech internships. Our partnership will give We Lead CS students the opportunity to work with major employers to gain experience and begin their careers in computer science. We can’t wait to work with some of the best and brightest in Kentucky!”
Kentucky’s education leaders have praised We Lead CS for its innovative approach to education and workforce development.
“To ensure that Kentucky’s economy is ready for the future, we need to educate our students so they are prepared for the jobs of the future,” said Robbie Fletcher, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Education. “We Lead CS is bridging the gap between school and the workplace to ensure that young people have the skills they need to succeed in 2024 and beyond.”
Microgrants will be available to chambers of commerce that demonstrate a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for computer science students within their communities. Chambers are encouraged to use the funds to partner with local schools, universities, and tech companies to create meaningful programs and support systems.
“We are looking for chambers who want to build bridges for their young people to have access to quality education and as a result, high-paying jobs,” Sells said.
Local chambers of commerce will have the flexibility to tailor their programs to meet the specific needs of their communities. Whether it’s offering hands-on workshops, or creating internship opportunities with local tech companies, the goal is to make a tangible impact on students’ educational and professional journeys.
Applications for the microgrants are available now and will be open until November 15, 2024, and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Chambers of commerce interested in applying can find more information at weleadcs.com and can fill out the form to apply.