Amazon and Detroit’s Grand Circus Partner for Programming Bootcamp

Grand Circus, a learning institute offering full stack bootcamps for aspiring programmers based in Detroit, today announced a partnership with Amazon to host a fully funded bootcamp targeting diverse applicants in metro Detroit.
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Young african male programmer writing program code sitting at the workplace with three monitors in the office. Image focused on the screen
Amazon and Grand Circus in Detroit have partnered to form a fully-funded and virtual programming bootcamp. // Stock Photo

Grand Circus, a learning institute offering full stack bootcamps for aspiring programmers based in Detroit, today announced a partnership with Amazon to host a fully funded bootcamp targeting diverse applicants in metro Detroit.

“Working with Amazon on this initiative is an exciting opportunity for everyone involved, especially prospective students,” says Damien Rocchi, founder and CEO of Grand Circus. “Our mission since inception has been to bridge the talent gap that exists between Detroiters and the growing technical job opportunities in the city.

“We are proud to have helped hundreds of people advance their careers and we’re excited to ensure more people in metro Detroit will be able to gain the critical skills they need to succeed in their careers.”

Using programming language Java as an introductory lens, the 28-week program will end with all graduates having the opportunity to interview for entry-level developer roles at Amazon’s Detroit Tech Hub.  The first after-hours cohort of students begin instruction March 28, for which Amazon will provide funding.

A recent study revealed the more than 24 percent of Detroit households lack any sort of broadband connection. At the same time, the city’s tech scene has grown over the last decade. With support from Amazon, Grand Circus will be able to extend its technical education further into the city’s population and help ensure more Detroiters can access new Detroit jobs.

“Technical skills are more important than ever for candidates applying to roles at Amazon and beyond right now,” says Garret Gaw, director of software development at Amazon. “Grand Circus is a results-oriented, trusted organization, and we are proud to be the latest local employer to help them expand their reach to prepare even more interested students for exciting, well-paying, and in-demand technical roles.”

Grand Circus was founded in 2013 to give aspiring coders access to the high-demand technology skills necessary to compete in the digital economy. The institution also teaches students soft skills such as interview preparation and works to connect graduates directly with potential employers in software development roles.

Amazon’s Detroit Tech Hub opened in 2012 and has expanded to employ nearly 500 people. The office contributes to the more than 21,000 Amazon employees in the state, where the company has invested $6 billion since 2010.

The 100 percent virtual program runs from March 28 to Sept. 23 and required a GED or equivalent to participate. The deadline for applications is Feb. 20. To apply for the free program, click here.