i.c. stars* in Kansas City: A Bridge to Tech Opportunities for the Underserved

Kansas City-Based Organization Fosters Tech Skills Among Underserved Individuals

Access to technology-based careers is expanding in Kansas City, thanks to the transformative efforts of a development program known as i.c. stars*. Kansas City, known for its vibrant tech community, is witnessing an extraordinary movement aimed at equipping underserved adults with vital technological skills needed to thrive in the modern tech industry.

Putting Stars in Their Eyes: A New Future in Technology

Initiated 25 years ago in Chicago and subsequently launched in Milwaukee, i.c. stars* has now extended its reach to Kansas City, largely owing to the initiative of former Chiefs player Will Shields. The 16-week intensive program is assisting participants to acquire valuable technology skills and creating a pathway for them into sustainable careers in the tech industry.

One of the program’s beneficiaries, Gregory, shared his exciting and life-changing journey with the program; from being injured in his previous job to embarking on a new path in the tech industry saying, “The timing couldn’t have been better. It was just like a God-send.”

Leveraging Diversity: A Multi-faceted Approach to Skill Development

Despite the varied backgrounds of its participants, the program manages to foster a cohesive and constructive learning environment. “I mean, everybody that’s here is coming from a different place,” said Harris, “And to be able to take different personalities, different walks of life, and combine them here and get everybody on one page and focus is commendable.”

Over the past year, the organization has successfully executed two cycles of classes, reaching out to communities often overlooked when it comes to technical skill development. The executive director of i.c. stars*, Shamika Hogan, reinforced the organization’s mission saying, “I think that giving folks from underserved or under-resourced communities opportunities to have a seat at this table that is technology and to be able to allow for them to change their lives.”

Ensuring Success: Comprehensive Support Programs

The organization facilitates its program participants by providing not just technological training and exposure, but also comprehensive support like weekly stipends, childcare assistance and transportation options. “We’re providing the real runway for them to be successful,” stated Hogan.

Generous Donation Fuels Expansion of Outreach

Thanks to a generous $5 million donation by Mackenzie Scott, the former spouse of Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, the organization will be able to continue and extend its impactful work. “I think getting this [donation] from Mackenzie is really a stamp of approval from someone that’s really philanthropic and that believes in making an impact in the community,” Hogan remarked.

Making a Difference: A Ripple Effect in the Community

The impact of i.c. stars* extends beyond the classrooms. Program graduates have successfully secured positions in several tech firms and startups across Kansas City, besides providing a gateway to higher income. However, the transformation is not just occupational but personal as well; participants build greater self-confidence, communication, and leadership skills.

“They’re building up people as people, like mending,” commented Harris. “Maybe we come in broken and mending certain people and giving people confidence, leadership skills, communication skills.”

i.c. stars* is currently recruiting for the next cycle of training. An organization built on the ethos of shared community strength, i.c. stars* continues its journey towards fostering tech-savvy, confident and successful individuals in Kansas City and beyond.