Code Girls United

Code Girls United - Free Afterschool Computer Science and Coding Program

An overview of who we are, what we do, and our approach, which includes using computer science and math to foster social-emotional learning. We provide an opportunity for girls to see if they like working with technology, and provide the opportunity to try it out. Girls, 4th – 8th grade, meet weekly after school throughout the year. The first half of the year involves learning the basics of Computer Science. In the second half of the year, the girls split into teams to choose a service project, then complete a business case, and then code their app. The girls then compete in local and national competitions. Code Girls United provides free after-school programs that promote social-emotional learning, career readiness, and tools for self-sufficiency. Through our After-School Coding & Business Program, we help rural and Native girls from low-income areas across Montana improve their social mobility by equipping them with the education and resources they need for future success in STEM-related fields.

Kathy Eckhart

In her short tenure as Program Director for Code Girls United Kathy has led double digit growth in both program locations and number of girls served in Eastern Montana. Kathy has extensive experience in management, operations, and training. She is passionate about providing Montana girls STEM and business education opportunities as a way of setting a path toward exciting career choices.

Kathy loves meeting new people and networking, she is always ready to make a new friend over a good cup of coffee. Outside of work Kathy enjoys crafting, hiking and paddle boarding.

Darian Shackelford

Darian began working with Code Girls United when she agreed to teach two after school classes during the 2023-2024 school year. She seamlessly combined her creativity and passion for investing in girls education to lead one of her teams to a 2nd place scholarship win at the Code Girls United App challenge.

She recently accepted a position as Program Coordinator and is excited to continue making an impact.

In her free time, she loves sunshine, pickleball, CrossFit, and walks with her husband and 2 year old daughter.

Darian is perennially curious. She loves to read, learn new things and expand her capabilities. She has a knack for graphic design and problem solving making her the perfect fit in her role with Code Girls United.