Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) has re-introduced The Coding Technology Improvement Act, legislation to allow coding technology programs to receive funding through the Department of Education. Currently, only accredited universities may receive such funding, but a number of innovative institutions are offering high-quality programs that propel students into high-paying jobs in the coding arena. This bill would provide these programs with the federal support they need to expand and continue to offer skills-training to interested students.

“The economy in New Hampshire and across the country is changing in ways that would have been unimaginable just a few years ago and it’s critical that we provide our young people with the opportunity to gain the skills to stay competitive in the 21^st Century,” said Kuster. “Careers in coding and software development are an increasingly important part of our economy in the Granite State and expanding access to technology training will be a win-win for students and our state. This commonsense legislation would allow innovative coding programs to apply for funding through the Department of Education, expanding the reach and effectiveness. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance this measure.

Across the country, “coding boot camps” and other innovative education providers are partnering with colleges and universities to offer students specialized courses in coding that will equip them with skills necessary to compete in a 21st century economy. The University of New Hampshire partners with non-traditional education providers like the Flatiron School to prepare students for high-quality careers in software development and information technology. Kuster’s bill would allow these programs to apply for federal education grants.

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