History & Mission
Firme Coding's story is one of resilience, empowerment, and second chances. Founded in 2023, the organization emerged from the collaborative efforts of CSUN's Project Rebound and the passion of Maria Martinez, a CSUN graduate and former Project Rebound scholar. Martinez's personal journey from incarceration to a successful career in computer science ignited her desire to create similar pathways for others, a vision that became the driving force behind Firme Coding's establishment. The organization's launch was further catalyzed by the receipt of the Global Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Equity Innovation Hub (EIH) at California State University, Northridge Community Grant, awarded for their compelling proposal: "From Prison to Computer Science Careers: Creating a Pipeline for Formerly Incarcerated Students." Through strategic partnerships, dedicated leadership, and an unwavering commitment to providing access to education and opportunity, Firme Coding is playing a pivotal role in transforming lives and fostering a more inclusive tech industry.
Our mission is to educate and nurture individuals with criminal legal system involvement, equipping them with the digital skills to thrive in today's society. By providing a taste of the possibilities, we hope to inspire these individuals to pursue careers in tech and higher education. Through a strategic curriculum, active education and preparation, and supportive pathways, we not only disrupt the cycle of poverty contributing to incarceration and recidivism but also challenge perceptions surrounding those returning home from incarceration
People & Culture at Firme Coding:
Built on Shared Experience and Empowerment
At Firme Coding, our strength lies in the lived experiences of our team and the unwavering support we provide to our fellows. We're more than just an organization; we're a community bound by a shared understanding of the challenges and triumphs of re-entry.
Our founder, Maria Martinez, and lead instructor, Jason Ingram, are both formerly incarcerated individuals who have successfully transitioned into the tech industry. Their personal journeys fuel our commitment to empowering others with similar backgrounds. Our staff comprises individuals who are either formerly incarcerated or justice-impacted, with loved ones affected by the criminal justice system. This shared experience allows us to create a safe, understanding, and encouraging environment for our fellows.
We believe in the power of community. We foster a culture of collaboration, mentorship, and peer support, recognizing that navigating re-entry and the tech world is easier together. We celebrate individual achievements and provide ongoing support to ensure our fellows feel valued and empowered to reach their full potential.
Key aspects of our people and culture:
Lived Experience: Our team understands the unique challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals.
Empathy and Support: We provide a safe and encouraging space for our fellows to learn and grow.
Community Building: We foster a strong network of support and collaboration.
Empowerment: We believe in the potential of every individual and provide the tools and resources to succeed.
Second Chances: We are committed to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals to thrive in the tech industry.
At Firme Coding, we're not just teaching code; we're building a community of empowered individuals ready to contribute their talents to the world.
