Black Girls Code has announced the creation of Beyond Code Collective, a new independent nonprofit organization designed to expand AI literacy and technology workforce pathways through an integrated mix of education, training, and career support programs.

The initiative, unveiled March 9 in New York, is intended to connect learners with technical training, emerging technology curricula, and employment pathways in a technology-driven economy. Organizers say the model is designed to bridge the gap between early inspiration in technology education and long-term career opportunities in the sector.

Beyond Code Collective will operate as a standalone organization while working alongside Black Girls Code, which continues its focus on programs encouraging Black and Brown girls and women to pursue careers in technology.

Cristina Mancini, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Beyond Code Collective, says the organization was created to address the growing gap between technology skills and employment opportunities.

“At Beyond Code Collective, we’re uniting the worlds of emerging tech and human talent to shape a future where innovation is inclusive, responsible, and within reach for all. For the past year, I’ve been asking leaders, experts, and students, “Who is coding your future?” The answer has not been satisfactory. I founded this new organization to address the growing gap between skills and opportunities across all communities,” Mancini says.

She adds that the organization plans to deliver both online and in-person programming: “We will be offering both virtual and in-person programming with live instructors, providing wraparound support, meeting learners where they are, and supporting pathways to real economic mobility through hands-on training, mentorship, and job placement.”

Programs focused on skills, community, and workforce entry

Beyond Code Collective is structured around several programs designed to support learners at different stages of the technology workforce pipeline.

The organization’s Forge centers will operate as community-based technology hubs designed as “third spaces” that sit outside traditional school or workplace environments. These locations will host workshops, coding labs, and technology education programs covering areas such as artificial intelligence, gaming, and climate technology.

Programming is intended for a wide range of learners, from young students to adults seeking to transition into technology roles or upskill for new careers.

Another core initiative, Beyond Code Catalysts, is a cohort-based workforce program that combines technical training with industry credentials and career preparation. Participants will work toward certifications including CompTIA, Salesforce, and Amazon Web Services while completing externships, apprenticeships, and career coaching programs.

The program also includes additional support such as financial literacy training, workplace skills development, and mental health resources.

Programs for career transitions and AI skills

Beyond Code Collective is also introducing a workforce initiative designed specifically for athletes transitioning into careers outside professional sports.

The After the Game program targets recently retired professional athletes and NCAA student-athletes seeking new career pathways. The program combines live instruction, technical skills training, and job placement support to help participants transition into technology roles.

The organization’s curriculum development includes partnerships with technology companies and research institutions. Contributors include automation platform Zapier, which is supporting training in AI automation through its AI Builder Path.

Beyond Code Collective is also working with the Responsible AI for Computational Action research project from the Responsible AI for Social Empowerment and Education initiative at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The collaboration will introduce AI, machine learning, and emerging technology curriculum for middle and high school students, including an adapted version of the project’s computer vision program.

The organization says the broader goal is to create a connected learning ecosystem that links technical education, workforce preparation, and career placement opportunities.

Black Girls Code will continue to focus on its existing mission of expanding participation in technology by supporting Black and Brown girls and women through technology education programs and career development initiatives.

ETIH Innovation Awards 2026

The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 are now open and recognize education technology organizations delivering measurable impact across K–12, higher education, and lifelong learning. The awards are open to entries from the UK, the Americas, and internationally, with submissions assessed on evidence of outcomes and real-world application.

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