Code Camp 2024: Empowering the Next Generation
Article content
As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on the tremendous success of the 2024 ETS Tech Academy Code Camp. This event brought together young minds from Manitoba First Nation School Systems and MFNERC-Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre. Students and their chaperones from communities like York Landing, St. Theresa Point, Oxford House, Fox Lake, and others traveled to Winnipeg for a week to explore the world of technology and innovation.
From the very first day, students immersed themselves in programming with great focus and initiative. As they tackled coding challenges, instructors adapted their teaching methods to suit each student's unique learning style. Every evening buzzed with excitement as students experienced recreation across Winnipeg - swapping stories of their day’s adventures and eagerly exploring what life in the IT world might look like for them in the following day's class. The energy and passion on display this year was electrifying, showcasing the incredible potential of all involved. With this momentum, ETS Tech Academy's Code Camp is poised for an even brighter future as it continues to grow.
A Week of Learning and Fun
The camp kicked off with a warm welcome and an overview of the week's activities. On Day 1, students were introduced to the program's goals, which included providing technical skills relevant to programming and IT, as well as life skills that could be beneficial in various career paths. The ETS curriculum was explained to the students and chaperones. This curriculum was designed to be a multi-year program, offering a structured pathway for students starting from grade 9, leading to potential employment at ETS or scholarships for post-secondary education.
Throughout the week, students participated in various in-class sessions and hands-on coding activities. They learned about creative development, where they explored different stages of creating new computer technologies, from learning the game and testing their own codes. Collaboration was a key focus, as students worked together to bring their innovative ideas to life.
Highlights of the Week
One of the standout moments of the camp was the ETS Tech Academy Award Ceremony, that was held on September 27, 2024. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of the students and recognized their hard work and dedication. It was a proud moment for everyone involved, as the students received special awards from their Code Combat journey and accolades for their outstanding performance. The students also received their Tech Academy certificates and their very own laptops to use for their future classes with ETS Tech Academy.
Another student favourite highlight was the various team-building activities and outings that they experienced all week. From classroom sessions to fun-filled events in Winnipeg like U-Puttz, Activate and the Exchange Income Corporation - Every Child Matters Winnipeg Blue Bombers event, the students had plenty of opportunities to bond and create lasting memories. “I can’t wait to come back next year and learn more about coding. This was the best opportunity that I have ever had and I encourage more students to join next year.” one student mentioned. “ETS Tech Academy made it possible for me to dream even bigger that I can work in tech someday” another student added.
These activities not only provided a break from the intense yet fun learning sessions but also helped in building a strong sense of community among the students. “I would like to thank the whole organization of Exchange Technology Services for hosting this Code Camp. Our students told me that they really enjoyed their time out there and already talked to their classmates on joining next year! This was a great opportunity for our youth, and I am pleased to see more things like this available to Northern Communities.” one chaperone said.
.jpg)
Looking Ahead
As we look back on this year’s Code Camp, we look forward to many more successful editions in the future. The camp has proven to be a rewarding experience for the students, chaperones and the organizers. It has provided a platform for young minds to explore their potential and has paved the way for a brighter future in the tech industry.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and contributed to the success of this year's camp. Your dedication and enthusiasm have made a significant impact, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for these young tech enthusiasts.
.png)
.svg)
