STOCKTON, CA - Digital NEST, a nonprofit organization focused on increasing diversity in the tech industry, announced its plan to open a new location in downtown Stockton.
Founded in 2014 by Jacob Martinez, the organization aims to provide underprivileged youth in smaller Californian cities with the skills, resources, and network needed to launch successful careers in technology.
Digital NEST's expansion to Stockton is part of their ongoing mission to bridge the digital divide and provide accessible tech opportunities to young people. The organization offers free workforce training to high school students and young adults up to 24 years old, along with job placements, including opportunities to work with San Francisco-based clients.
The Stockton location, expected to open this summer or fall, will offer a variety of classes, including web design, video game development, graphic design, and video and music production. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in paid internships, further building their skills and professional network.
Digital NEST's efforts are supported by local community investors, government grants, and major tech firms like Netflix, EA, Twitch, Yelp, and Twitter. This backing ensures the organization can provide a safe, collaborative space with state-of-the-art technology for its students.
In preparation for the Stockton launch, Digital NEST is currently seeking local talent to take on leadership roles and hiring additional staff for remote positions. The new location is set to operate from 2 p.m. to around sundown, giving young people in the area a chance to engage in hands-on learning and gain valuable experience in the tech industry.
With this expansion, Digital NEST continues to work towards addressing the lack of diversity in Silicon Valley and creating more opportunities for youth in smaller California cities outside the San Francisco Bay Area. For more on this, visit the Stockton Record.