Become a Mentor: STEM Coding Lab, Inc.

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STEM Coding Lab is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that teaches underserved children computer skills in order to better prepare them to compete and succeed in the digital world. We believe that all children should have the opportunity to succeed regardless of income levels.

Working in conjunction with Pittsburgh Public Schools & other area schools & organizations, STEM Coding Lab provides free computer science classes to elementary & middle school students in our after-school "Code Clubs."

Mentors at STEM Coding Lab work with students (grades 5 - 8) in our after-school "Code Club." Mentors assist & support students in their quest to learn computer programming or coding. In a relaxed & fun environment students & mentors explore the digital world. Students discover how computers work through "unplugged" activities that develop problem-solving skills as well as computer face-time that introduces them to computer languages - beginning with block coding (Blockley & SCRATCH) and progressing to HTML, CSS, Python & more?

Learning to code can be fun & empowering but also challenging. The mentors at STEM Coding Lab are critical to our students' success, providing encouragement, guidance & support. We know that having positive adult relationships can be life-changing for our children.

While experience in coding is a plus, mentors do not have to have a computer science background. They must, however, have a desire & willingness to learn along with our students. Code Club is a place for the curious - for students & mentors alike who want to know how computers work and to learn the languages they speak. Code Club is for everyone!

We require a "school-year" commitment from our mentors with a 1-2 hour time commitment per week. Our Code Clubs run from Monday - Thursday after the regular school day (exact hours vary depending upon the individual school).

All mentors are required to obtain the following clearances:
FBI Federal Criminal History Clearance
Act 34 State Criminal Clearance
Act 151 PA Child Abuse Clearance



Seeking Female Volunteers: Yes

Seeking Male Volunteers: Yes

Minimum Match Commitment (in months): 9 months

Type of Mentoring: One-to-One, Group

Youth Population Served: Low Income

Mentoring Program Goals: Education/Academic Support

Ages of Youth Served: 8-10, 11-14