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At Girls Who Code Des Moines, students explore coding in a fun and friendly environment with support from women in tech

Girls Who Code (GWC) Des Moines is a program for students in grades six to twelve to build coding skills and community while learning about women in tech. A nationally recognized movement, GWC clubs are a sisterhood of supportive peers and role models using computer science to change the world. Local female technology professionals serve as mentors, working with students at camp and during monthly club meetups throughout the year.

The Girls Who Code Des Moines 2026 Summer Camp will take place on Wednesday, August 12 and Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 9am to 4pm each day at ITA Group.

No coding experience is necessary to participate. This year’s camp is built around artificial intelligence, robotics, and real-world tech careers — with hands-on sessions designed for all skill levels. Highlights include:

  • AI Prompt Engineering — Learn how to communicate with AI tools to get powerful results, no coding required
  • AI Safety & Red Teaming — Think critically about AI output and learn responsible AI practices
  • Hands-On Robotics — Program Finch robots alongside experienced facilitators
  • Applied AI in the Real World — Hear from industry professionals about what AI careers look like today
  • Inspiring speakers including a 13-year-old published author, IT leadership veterans, and women working at the cutting edge of technology

Lunch is provided both days.

Requirements:

  • Students in grades six to twelve
  • A Girls Who Code club account (see below)
  • Commitment to attending both days

As a free camp with limited seats, Tech Journey gives priority to students who can commit to full attendance. Please do not register a student who cannot participate each day.

Contact info@techjourney.org or mackenzie@shiftdsm.com with questions.

Special thanks to ITA Group for supporting our Girls Who Code camp.

  • For Students

    Learn to code

    Girls Who Code clubs focus on building sisterhood and making an impact while exploring coding in a fun and friendly environment. Beginner to advanced students are welcome!

  • For Parents

    Invest in healthy students and future careers

    Parent or guardian encouragement in Girls Who Code enables learning, fosters community and helps students perform better when they are in school. The safe and supportive environment of peers and role models help students learn to see themselves in future tech careers.

  • For Volunteer Mentors

    Invest in the next generation

    Interested in making a difference and impacting the next generation of female engineers? Contact us to become a Girls Who Code volunteer facilitator and mentor. Or subscribe to our distribution list and be notified of future volunteer opportunities.