Reskill Americans is a nonprofit founded by tech veterans that provides tuition-free software development training, mentorship and community to unemployed, underemployed and career-switching historically underrepresented racial minorities across the U.S. to help them launch a career in tech.
We eliminate traditional barriers to access so that aspiring tech professionals with no prior experience can enroll in our rigorous, instructor–led online program. Participants who complete our seven-month program will have applied their new skills to software development projects, worked on cross-functional teams, and built a portfolio of work to show future employers.
We are a group of tech professionals who want everyone to have the opportunity to access a career in tech.
"We want to live in a world where minority representation in the tech sector mirrors their percentage in the US population."
"When I heard about how Reskill Americans is accessible to all who want to try, and learned about their method of teaching, the mentorship that they provide to participants, and how their inaugural cohort scaled to 42 states across the country, I felt it was an approach worth investing my time in; I'm eager to help them grow into a nonprofit with longevity."
"Creating career pathways in tech enables me to help thousands of racial minorities change the trajectory of their lives and the lives of future generations.”"
We are supported by talented and committed advisors who are experts in the industry.
"I believe that a career in tech is key to the future. I have two boys who I am trying to prepare for the future workforce."
"Providing access to an education in technology can transform lives, and I joined the Advisory Board of Reskill Americans because I want to help give underrepresented minorities the opportunity to start exciting and fulfilling careers in technology."
"Reskill American’s unique and noble approach is refreshing, and I am sure it will be effective in changing the trajectory of many lives.”"
"I am inspired by the mission of Reskill Americans, and I want to play a part in helping aspiring tech professionals, especially historically underrepresented racial minorities, find a fulfilling career in the industry."
"I truly believe that our training model could 'crack the code' on how to make software training accessible to anyone. My hope is that anyone who has a dream of working in technology will not only see that it is possible, but have confidence that one day, they can become role models for others.”"
"Everyone can build a fulfilling career in tech if given the opportunity, and I want to make sure that more people that look like me have that opportunity.”"
"Reducing barriers to training is an important step in helping individuals achieve their professional dreams, and in making opportunities for success available to all."
Watch Femi Akinde speak about why he felt an urgency to launch Reskill Americans and help create opportunities for what he calls “undrafted free agents” to get into the tech industry. The video was filmed as part of Microsoft’s internal speaker series, Outside in, and also featured Seattle Seahawks Coach Pete Carroll.