STAREAST 2020 Concurrent Session : Uplifting Future Leaders through Code Camps

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Thursday, May 7, 2020 - 3:00pm to 4:00pm

Uplifting Future Leaders through Code Camps

This summer, a Young Women in Tech code camp was held in Columbus, Ohio, for members of the Bhutanese–Nepali refugee community. More than a dozen experts in technology volunteered to teach girls ages 13 to 17 about career options within technology, including computer programming, accessibility, user-centered design processes, cyber security, photo editing, software development, and desktop management. The training was supplemented by college admissions officers providing education guidance and a course on resume building, and the entire camp was sponsored by a local community college and local businesses. If you're interested in getting involved, come learn about starting a similar supplemental training opportunity. Sarala Pandey will show you how to organize a code camp locally, from securing financial support and facilities for training to soliciting volunteer teachers in technology. Learn how you can help uplift the next generation of leaders!

Sarala Pandey
Chipotle Mexican Grill

Sarala Pandey is presently serving as the IT Quality Assurance Manager for Chipotle Mexican Grill. She is responsible for managing resources, creating and maintaining QA standards and process for the restaurant and corporate support system of the entire organization. Sarala is accountable for all QA personnel and project delivery for multiple teams including but not limited to RPA. She drives all phases of the agile development process and is responsible for delivery of the entire support system. In addition, Sarala is responsible for maintaining organizational efficiency and efficacy by piloting test automation, exploratory testing, and the continuing education program. She works with each IT team member to achieve quality assurance operation objectives by preparing and completing action plans within budgetary constraints, as well as individual counseling to ensure professional development. Sarala is passionate about reducing cost without compromising quality and making the workplace a learning place as well.

Ashtha Singh
Student

Ashtha Singh is a senior at Dublin Jerome High School. She is president of the journalism club, captain of the debate team, a black belt in taekwondo, and a varsity field hockey player. Most notably, she began a non-profit with Sarala Pandey, aimed towards providing underprivileged young women with education in STEM and IT fields. Ashtha has traveled around the United States speaking at various conferences regarding her work with refugee communities and educating members of the tech community on their unique ability to serve their community.