When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Ada Developers Academy HQ
Why Ada Developers Academy HQ is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ada Developers Academy HQ stands out as a premier nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the technology skills gap by offering tuition-free, intensive coding education designed specifically for women and gender-expansive individuals. With its headquarters in Seattle and campuses in multiple cities, Ada combines rigorous training with inclusive support to foster diversity in tech. The academy's flagship program, Ada Core, spans 11 months and blends six months of full-time classroom learning with a five-month paid internship, giving students hands-on experience at notable tech companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, Nordstrom, and Zillow. This comprehensive curriculum covers Python, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, React, and introduces learners to AI-powered development tools including GitHub’s Copilot. Ada not only delivers technical skills but also emphasizes social justice, inclusion, and resilience, requiring prospective students to demonstrate a commitment to these values during admissions. Beyond academics, Ada offers vital support such as laptop loans, childcare subsidies, mental health therapy, and one-on-one mentorship, making it an exceptional place to connect, learn, and launch a career in software development while fostering a collaborative and empowering community.
Here's what people think of Ada Developers Academy HQ
As of recent, Ada Developers Academy HQ holds a 3.9-star rating based on 19 reviews.
Reviews for Ada Developers Academy HQ present a mix of perspectives with an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 based on 19 user reviews. Many learners praise the academy for its rigorous curriculum and the invaluable hands-on experience gained through its five-month paid internships at leading tech companies. Positive feedback often highlights the supportive community atmosphere, dedicated instructors, and the academy's mission-driven focus on diversity and inclusion, which creates an empowering learning environment. Graduates frequently commend the high job placement rates and competitive starting salaries post-completion. On the other hand, some critiques revolve around the high intensity and fast pace of the coursework, which can be challenging for some students. A few reviewers noted that while the program is demanding, the level of support varies, and some felt overwhelmed balancing the workload with personal responsibilities. Additionally, a small number found the initial admission process competitive and rigorous. In conclusion, the reviews collectively recognize Ada Developers Academy HQ as a transformative program for those seeking to break into the tech industry, particularly for underrepresented groups, though it demands strong dedication and commitment to succeed.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jerica Huang
Ada Developers Academy is a non-profit, cost-free coding school focused on serving underrepresented minorities in tech. Students come in from diverse backgrounds and emerge with the knowledge and experience (including a 5 month paid internship) to enter the workforce as entry level software developers. The campus and office is located on the second and third floors of the 315 5th Ave S building. If you’re not a staff member or student, you will need a visitor’s permit; it is not open to the public. There is metered street parking and paid public lot parking nearby. I'm a former Ada employee and seen firsthand the transformative program on students' careers and lives. Ada offers comprehensive and holistic support for students during their time in the program, including childcare, interest-free loans, therapy, career services, equity and allyship training, laptop rental, student success coaching, and more. In addition to Seattle Campus, there are also digital and Atlanta-based (soon DC-based) learning cohorts. There are a few other programs in addition to the core program (e.g. Accelerate for those with prior experience and Ada Build Live which is free and open for everyone). Ada staff also go through anti-racist and inclusive practices and seek to live out Ada values in everything they do. The community developed in each cohort has been very tight-knit. I'm giving a four-star rating because no company and no cohort experience has been perfect, whether by circumstances outside of our control or by how Ada management and staff handled them. However management seeks to adopt growth mindset and welcome student and staff feedback to improve their experiences.
A O
They allowed the latest cohort to put time and energy into applying only to scrape the entire program the day of. So for 3+ months while candidates interviewed, did a coding project, and essay, they held on to this information, waiting until the very last minute to inform people there will be no cohort. What a low-level move.
Preanna Gaymon
There is alot of flaws with their program its not fit for the most woman in this modern age society who wants to learn coding or enchance their self taught skills with an interactive learning platform that isn't so old fashioned. I recommend skillcrush and similar programs that are more modern & easy to follow and understand. This school also makes it known that if you're not good at math and not fit in their 'box' of skills in tech they're not willing to help you. I decided to not even waste the time for their testing. Their study guide really didn't do anything for me. I do think it's a wonderful cause but their program needs to be updated. Since nowadays you don't need certifications to be in these tech fields. A great portfolio showcasing talent, resume and interview skills is all that is needed. I'm a freelancer but looking into a full time career and to update my skills in tech. Most of my skills are designing with basic coding for websites and looking to advance. I just think this model of teaching is very outdated my personal opinion. The website even looks old and unappealing.
Caroline Perry
The don't want to admit cis white women. Discrimination is discrimination. 🙄
Brisa Martin
Instructors and staff are very committed to the values of the program. Unfortunately it seems like they are reorganizing and they are distancing their mission from trying to change the face of tech and focusing on just being a coding school.
How to reach Ada Developers Academy HQ
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Why Ada Developers Academy HQ may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ada Developers Academy HQ with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Ada Developers Academy HQ in Seattle offers a unique and inspiring environment that goes far beyond a typical meetup spot. This place is not just a physical location; it's a vibrant community hub dedicated to empowering women and gender-expansive individuals through accessible tech education and career development. Meeting here means you and your group can immerse yourselves in a space where learning, growth, and inclusivity are central values. The energy of a supportive community driven by social justice and innovation makes it an ideal spot to connect with friends who share an interest in technology, social impact, or personal development.
Ada Developers Academy fosters a culture of collaboration rather than competition, ensuring that any group meetup feels welcoming and constructive. Whether your friends are tech enthusiasts, aspiring developers, educators, or simply curious about the tech world, this location offers a distinctive backdrop to share ideas, gain fresh perspectives, and even join workshops or events that may be open to visitors. The atmosphere encourages curiosity and support, making your gathering not just social but also enriching and motivational. Rallying at Ada HQ allows your group to step into a community focused on transformation and empowerment, making your meetup both fun and meaningful.
What activities and programs make Ada Developers Academy HQ perfect for a group meetup?
Ada Developers Academy HQ hosts an array of programs and activities that create engaging opportunities for groups looking to connect and learn together. The academy is best known for its intensive, tuition-free software development programs tailored for women and gender-diverse adults. While primarily an educational institution, the nature of these programs makes it a dynamic environment for groups interested in tech education or community involvement. Visitors can explore the Ada Build curriculum, a self-guided introduction to Python and coding fundamentals, which could be an excellent group activity to spark collaborative learning.
Seasonal events like Ada Build Live, a six-week virtual series with live instruction, encourage participation in a cohort-based learning experience. Such programs highlight the academy’s commitment to making coding education accessible and community-driven. Groups can attend special workshops focusing on computer science fundamentals, job readiness skills, and social justice in tech, providing meaningful dialogue and learning moments for attendees. The academy also offers career development workshops including resume building, interview preparation, and salary negotiation, which are highly relevant and useful activities if your group is interested in professional growth.
Moreover, the HQ’s welcoming environment supports various informal group gatherings around these learning opportunities. While the core classroom and internship programs cater to enrolled students, the space itself fosters peer learning and networking that are perfect for groups seeking both social interaction and intellectual engagement. The combination of structured program activities and a collaborative community vibe makes Ada Developers Academy HQ well-suited for groups aiming to bond over shared interests in technology, learning, and inclusivity.
How does the Ada Developers Academy environment support collaborative meetups?
The environment at Ada Developers Academy HQ is designed with collaboration and inclusion as foundational principles, making it a perfect venue for groups. The academy champions a community-over-competition mindset, emphasizing peer support, mentorship, and shared success. This ethos naturally encourages open discussions, teamwork, and knowledge exchange among visitors and students alike. A group's visit here can benefit from this open, supportive atmosphere by inspiring a deeper sense of connection and shared purpose.
Ada's infrastructure, including dedicated classrooms and collaborative workspaces, is geared to facilitate group activities and interactive sessions. The presence of experienced instructors and mentors on site means that if a group meetup includes newcomers or learners, expert guidance is available to help break down complex topics or spark new ideas. Additionally, the academy’s emphasis on social justice and diversity ensures that all participants — regardless of background or experience — feel welcomed, respected, and empowered, which enhances group dynamics positively.
The academy’s staff and leadership actively promote a holistic learning environment that extends beyond coding skills to include personal advocacy and community building. Groups gathering here can tap into this comprehensive support system, which encourages not only technical learning but also emotional well-being, self-care, and empowerment. This comprehensive environment nurtures meaningful interactions, making meetups feel impactful and memorable.
What makes Ada Developers Academy’s programs attractive for groups interested in tech education?
Ada Developers Academy offers a transformative 11-month program structure that educates and empowers individuals through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on internships. Groups interested in experiencing or learning about tech education will find the curriculum comprehensive and inspiring. The initial six months immerse students in foundational and advanced topics including Python, Flask, JavaScript, React, HTML, and CSS, which are core to full-stack web development. The following five-month paid internships with high-profile tech companies offer practical exposure that emphasizes real-world impact and career readiness.
For groups, the academy’s focus on women and gender-expansive people with no prior coding experience stands out as a powerful statement of inclusivity and opportunity. This focus enriches group meetups with diverse perspectives and a unique sense of purpose. The high graduation rate (97%) and impressive employment outcomes (94% securing full-time developer roles within 180 days) highlight the program’s effectiveness, adding credibility and inspiration for anyone interested in tech careers. Hearing success stories and learning about these programs firsthand makes group visits intellectually rewarding and motivating.
The academy also supports students with resources such as laptop loans, childcare subsidies, and mental health services — factors that speak to the institution’s holistic approach to learner support. For groups, understanding how Ada integrates these supportive elements can provide valuable insights into creating nurturing learning environments in their own communities or workplaces. Overall, Ada’s programs offer a model of accessible, rigorous, and socially conscious tech education that groups can admire, learn from, and celebrate during their visit.
Why is Ada Developers Academy HQ a unique venue for social justice and tech discussions with friends?
Ada Developers Academy HQ is not solely a tech education center; it is a social justice-oriented institution that integrates advocacy directly into its programming and culture. This intersection of technology and social justice creates a vibrant atmosphere for groups wanting to engage in meaningful conversations beyond coding itself. The academy explicitly aims to break down barriers for underrepresented groups in tech—72% of admitted students are people of color and 43% belong to groups traditionally underrepresented in the tech industry. Gathering here gives any group a chance to experience and reflect on these vital diversity initiatives.
The programs encourage students to consider how technology can be used for social good, and workshops often cover topics like equity in tech environments, navigating systemic challenges, and fostering inclusive workplaces. This environment provides fertile ground for friends to discuss broader societal issues through the lens of innovation and technology. Moreover, the academy’s leadership and staff represent a diverse spectrum of voices committed to justice and equity, which adds depth and authenticity to group conversations held here.
Being in such a space can inspire groups to think critically about inclusion and empowerment within their own circles and professional fields. The commitment to social justice combined with cutting-edge tech training offers a rare setting where friends can both celebrate progress and strategize about future change. This makes Ada Developers Academy HQ an exceptional place for meetups aimed at thoughtful dialogue intertwined with practical tech learning.
How does the location and atmosphere of Ada Developers Academy HQ contribute to group meetups?
Located at 315 5th Ave S in Seattle, Ada Developers Academy HQ benefits from being situated in a vibrant urban area known for its strong tech industry presence and cultural diversity. Seattle is often called “The Emerald City,” famous for its natural beauty and thriving innovation sectors. Holding a group meetup here means your friends can enjoy easy access to local amenities including cafes, parks, and public transportation, which complement the indoor activities at the academy itself.
The HQ provides a comfortable and modern setting tailored to intense learning but also adaptable for informal socializing. The architecture and interior design typically prioritize collaborative spaces, plenty of natural light, and accessibility, contributing to a welcoming yet focused environment. These features make the venue ideal for groups who want to alternate between structured sessions and relaxed moments of conversation, brainstorming, or casual networking.
Seattle’s culture of inclusiveness and innovation resonates strongly within Ada’s walls, making the overall mood inspiring and empowering for any gathering. By hosting your meetup here, your group can benefit from both the buzz of a progressive tech community and the tranquility of a well-organized learning environment. Whether you aim to socialize, learn, or spark new ideas together, the venue’s urban setting and thoughtful ambiance greatly enhance the group experience.