PAGE – Promineo Tech, an innovative provider of tech education, and Moonshot, an entrepreneurial incubator, have partnered to offer a free, local class on software development.

Introduction to Java is a six-week course designed to teach the core programming concepts.

“This opportunity is open to Coconino County residents, but spaces are limited,” said Cindy Wilson, the workforce development manager at Coconino County Health and Human Services. “It’s a great opportunity to expand learning and explore a potential career path.”

Careers in technology are growing rapidly. The industry is expected to outpace many others, with a 21 percent growth rate in the next decade. This course is a first step toward a career in IT or computer programming. The concepts learned could also be applied to similar technology tracks, including web development.

“The tech industry is always looking for fresh talent,” said Nick Suwyn, president of Promineo Tech. “Developers have a high annual starting salary, so it’s great for someone who is re-careering or just starting out.”

Classes start Jan. 25 and are being held at Hyatt Place in Page (1126 N Navajo Dr.). Local residents can learn more or sign up online at moonshotaz.com/learn-to-code.

“Expanding education opportunities in rural areas is a rising tide that will lift all boats,” added Scott Hathcock, CEO of Moonshot. “We hope to fill every student opening to help the community boost attainment levels and expand the local economy.”

After completing this initial course, students can continue their education to become a back-end software developer building Application Programming Interfaces and working with data by learning Structured Query Language and a Java development framework such as Spring Boot.

The course is sponsored by ARIZONA@WORK and Coconino County Health and Human Services.