Code Wiz: Durham program helps kids prepare for careers in computer coding

Two out of three STEM jobs involve software development, so learning to code is among the most in-demand skills, says Teresa Hartsfield, owner and operator of Code Wiz.

"I think it’s for everybody and anybody. If you have a desire to learn, if you have a love and passion for learning, this is a great industry to get into," says Hartsfield.

She believes more children should learn coding skills early. Hartsfield says most children are already familiar with gaming, and would love the idea of a future career in the gaming or computer industry.

"Kids know Roblox and Minecraft, so that’s a phenomenal way to enter into the system – because they know it, they’re doing it anyway," she says. "But, let’s take their interest in this particular field and actually do some good with it and learn some tangible coding skills."

Students will discover that coding is all around them.

"It’s in cars. It’s in microwaves, in computers, in phones. Everything that we use on a day to day basis," she says.

Learning how to code can also help students improve critical thinking and problem solving skills. The key, says Hartsfield, is making the experience challenging, but most of all, fun.

"The children have access to these things. They’re doing it now! They have no clue, but let’s continue this mission, right? Make it an everyday thing for them so they can continue on and do greater and better things for society," she says.