CanCode Communities, a nonprofit organization training non-traditional talent for software career opportunities, has announced the launch of its initial HerkimerCanCode program: Digital Literacy Training, which will enable individuals in the Mohawk Valley to gain basic computer skills that are critical to pursuing and securing tech jobs in today’s information economy.

Classes will begin on Feb. 1, 2022, and are open to residents of both Herkimer and Oneida counties. Information sessions will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 14, at 10 a.m. and Thursday, Jan. 6, 2022, at 4 p.m. at Herkimer County Community College and virtually via the Zoom platform, to provide more information and answer questions.

The Digital Literacy Training curriculum teaches basic computer usage skills, including Google Docs and Microsoft Office; use and management of email and calendars; word processing and spreadsheet use; and using the web to conduct safe and productive internet job searches. Students may include those who have used a computer frequently in a professional environment, as well as those who have rarely used a computer and feel nervous about doing so. 

“We’re excited to kick off our first HerkimerCanCode program, and thrilled to partner with a group of outstanding organizations committed to creating and sustaining a vibrant region,” said CanCode Communities Founder and CEO Annmarie Lanesey. “We look forward to providing individuals with the skills necessary to build successful tech careers, and to giving companies access to a diverse pipeline of local talent that will strengthen the Mohawk Valley.” 

To register for the first information session on Dec. 14, go online to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/herkimercancode-virtual-digital-literacy-information-session-tickets-221564504397;

To register for the second information session on Jan. 6, 2022, go online to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/herkimercancode-virtual-digital-literacy-information-session-tickets-221592708757.

There is no cost to attend. For information, call 518-238-6808 or email info@albanycancode.org.

HerkimerCanCode offers computer coding courses to equip individuals with the skills needed to pursue job opportunities in the tech industry, while also establishing a diverse, inclusive pipeline of tech talent to serve the needs of the business community. It represents a partnership between CanCode Communities, Herkimer College, Herkimer County, Herkimer Working Solutions, and the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties.

“Herkimer College is excited to join CanCode Communities, Herkimer County, Herkimer Working Solutions and the Community Foundation on this exciting initiative,” said William McDonald, associate dean of academic affairs at Herkimer College. “We look forward to being an active partner in this effort to provide community members with marketable skills leading to lucrative careers and to strengthen the local tech industry workforce.”

“We already know that we possess a valuable workforce in our county and we believe that this unique opportunity could appeal to an otherwise untapped section of that workforce,” said Vincent J. Bono, chairman of the Herkimer County Legislature. “Partnering with Herkimer College, The Community Foundation and CanCode Communities to start HerkimerCanCode is an exciting first step in making workforce development training in the tech industry available in our county.” 

“Leaders in Herkimer County recognize that opportunities available in the tech industry are increasing,” said Karin Piseck, director of employment and training for Herkimer County and manager of Herkimer Working Solutions. “We think it’s the perfect time to offer this entry-level look into the digital literacy and software coding field.”  

“HerkimerCanCode brings wonderful opportunities to our community and its residents,” said Alicia Dicks, Community Foundation president/CEO. “The Community Foundation sees unique learning avenues like this that support technology careers and workforce development as critical to building and sustaining vibrancy in our two-county community.”