HYDERABAD: United Technologies Corp. announced an expansion of its strategic partnership with the U.S. based non-profit organization Girls Who Code (GWC).
GWC is building one of the largest pipelines of future female engineers and technologists in the U.S. and with UTC’s support, it is now expanding to India.
The global initiative, supported by Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney, is part of UTC’s comprehensive effort to inspire, train, increase and sustain the number of women and underrepresented populations in the technology sector.
GWC offers more than just coding skills – it helps aspiring technologists develop problem-solving skills, confidence-building, communication strategies, and empowers them to break barriers and build relationships that will last throughout their careers.
The program provides an environment for girls to engage in fun online coding tutorials, build community through interactive activities, learn about inspiring role models in tech, and work together to design solutions to real-world problems facing their communities. To date, GWC has set up 100 Girls Who Code Clubs in India.
“Digital acceleration is changing our world at an unprecedented pace and the future of our industries will be shaped by innovation rooted in gender parity,” said United Technologies’ Chief Digital Officer Vince Campisi.
“UTC is incredibly proud to partner with an organization like Girls Who Code, to foster a learning environment and empower women and girls of all ages and backgrounds to thrive in STEM-related roles. Together, we can begin to break barriers, build relationships and inspire the next generation of technology leaders in India and around the globe.”
“The partnership will enable more girls to explore computer science, develop tangible skills as students, and one day shape the future of aerospace.”, said Girls Who Code founder and CEO- Reshma Saujani.
GWC plans to leverage Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney in-country resources to expand pilot clubs in Bangalore, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai. With UTC’s support, GWC can serve as a gateway to technology and engineering careers for women in India. The program partners with schools and orphanages to set up free clubs and provide girls with the skills and tools necessary for success in engineering and technology fields, encouraging the pursuit of careers in STEM.
UTC is actively focusing its STEM investment strategy in support of achieving diversity goals, building technology workforce skills and driving community engagement in the places where UTC operates worldwide. UTC has more than 4,000 employees in India in its aerospace divisions – Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney.
