16 Break Into Tech Programs for Students, Grads, and Non-Degree Holders (Upcoming Deadlines)
If 2026 is the year you’re trying to break into tech, this blog post is for you! Back in 2021, I was a part of the wave of people who was on a mission to break into the tech industry. As a marketing girlie with little technical skills (except when I need to decode what’s wrong with my digital camera or why my Sims 4 keeps crashing), I successfully landed a full-time non-technical role at Tik Tok on their advertising sales. It wasn’t easy, but I’ve been on this tech rocketship (they love saying that LOL) ever since. I didn’t have access to programs like these, but now you do!
The 16 Programs listed are for
Non-degree holders, associate degree holders, bootcamp graduates pursuing a career in tech
Undergraduates looking for internships or fully funded programs to help them explore this path
New/Recent College Graduates (0-10 years out) trying to land their first tech roles
Common theme:
Providing you with the necessary skills, mentorships, professional development, and network to get a job in tech. A majority of people who have completed these programs have secured full-time or internship opportunities as a result. Don’t believe me? Read the testimonials. My favorite example is that everyone in my Tik Tok cohort were COOP graduates.
Program eligibility varies by program. They’re all U.S.-based or remote (with the IAPS fellowship being a global opportunity), and about 80% pay you to be in their program.
Below are sixteen early career programs (summits, internships, fellowships, apprenticeships, etc) that you can apply for in 2026 that’ll help you break into tech. Whether you're an aspiring AI Tech Marketer or a future data technologists, these are life changing opportunities worth bookmarking:
APPLY ASAP
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APPLY ASAP 〰️
1. Claude Campus Ambassador Program
Hosted by Team Wasserman Next Gen, the Claude Ambassador Program is a virtual, part-time opportunity for Gen Z leaders who are passionate about AI and tech accessibility. Claude Ambassadors get exclusive access to Claude AI, engage in community-building, and lead creative projects that promote responsible and inclusive tech.
Important Dates:
Application deadline: ASAP
Program dates: Spring 2026 semester. Virtual with in-person, on campus events
Program format and what to expect:
Networking with industry leaders and community builders
Professional development and leadership training
Swag, resume support, and project experience
Flexible, virtual schedule with Claude access
Who can apply:
College-aged students passionate about tech, AI, and community
Creative, entrepreneurial thinkers ready to build with Claude AI
No tech background or coding experience required
APPLY HERE ASAP, APPS REVIEWED ON ROLLING BASIS
2. COOP Data Analytics Fellowship
COOP is a tuition-free, career accelerator fellowship aimed at helping you launch your career in tech and get your first good job after graduation.
It's a 200-hour skills & network-building program:
→ 100 hours on hard skills relevant to your chosen career track (SQL, SEM, etc.)
→ 50 hours on interpersonal skills (communication, time mgmt, etc)
→ 50 hours on job search skills (resume writing, portfolio creation, networking)
I have successfully referred 1,000 people, so make sure you apply with my referral link!
Important Dates:
Extended deadline is February 3, 2026. Program begins February 2026.
Program format and what to expect:
Tuition-free program
200+ hours of training in Excel, SQL, Tableau, and Python
Portfolio development through hands-on data projects
1:1 coaching from industry professionals and alumni
Ongoing job search support and employer connections
Who can apply:
First-generation or low-income college graduates working in jobs that do not use their degree (or are unemployed)
Graduated (or will graduate) with a bachelor’s degree between 2016–2026
Lives within a two-hour radius of a COOP city (NYC, Chicago, Miami, LA, Bay Area)
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. (no sponsorship provided)
APPLY HERE WITH MY REFERRAL BY FEBRUARY 3, 2026
3. Linkedin REACH Apprenticeship
The LinkedIn REACH Apprenticeship is a multi-year, full-time program that creates pathways into tech for people from non-traditional backgrounds. Whether you're a career switcher, bootcamp grad, or self-taught developer, REACH provides hands-on engineering experience, mentorship, and community, all while working as a paid LinkedIn employee.
Important Dates:
Application deadline: January 23, 2026 at 11:59 PM PT
Program start: April 2026 cohort
Program format and what to expect:
Full-time paid role with LinkedIn employee benefits
20% of time dedicated to personal and technical development
Mentorship, team support, and community-based cohort learning
Real engineering projects and long-term growth opportunities
Who can apply:
Aspiring software engineers or technologists without traditional CS degrees
Open to bootcamp grads, self-taught learners, returners to the workforce, or career switchers
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.; no visa sponsorship available
APPLY HERE BY JANUARY 23, 2026
4. Walmart’s Sophomore Summit for Software Engineers
Walmart’s Sophomore Summit is a three-day immersive experience for students interested in careers in software engineering, AI, and machine learning. Held at Walmart’s Home Office in Bentonville, Arkansas. This summit gives participants insight into Walmart Global Tech’s impact and the chance to interview for a 2027 internship.
Important Dates:
Apply ASAP - Program is in Spring 2026
Program format and what to expect:
Travel and housing support expected
Networking with leaders, interns, and associates
Tour of Walmart’s brand-new corporate campus
Workshops and sessions on AI/ML and tech career paths
Who can apply:
Undergraduates graduating between Dec 2027 – Aug 2028
Majors in Computer Science, EE, Math, Stats, or related
Strong Python, machine learning, and AI skills required
Immigration sponsorship is not available
I have more fully-funded programs like this in my recent blog posts: Part 1 and Part 2
APPLY HERE ASAP, APPS REVIEWED ON A ROLLING BASIS
5. Girls Who Code x Accenture Build Forward Program
The Build Forward Program is a free, 4-week, self-paced learning experience designed to help learners explore emerging tech and build career-ready skills. Hosted in partnership with Girls Who Code + Accenture and delivered through Udacity, participants choose between two tracks: Generative AI or Product Strategy.
Important Dates:
Application deadline: January 23, 2026
Notification of admission: February 8, 2026
Program dates: February 11 – March 8, 2026
Program format and what to expect:
Online, self-paced course on Udacity
Choose between Generative AI or Product Strategy track
Weekly live touchpoints and peer community support
Earn a credential from Girls Who Code x Accenture
Who can apply:
U.S.-based learners aged 18+
No prior tech experience required
Must be a Girls Who Code member (free to join)
APPLY HERE BY JANUARY 23, 2026
6. IAPS AI Policy Fellowship
The IAPS AI Policy Fellowship is a fully funded, 3-month hybrid or global remote program for students and professionals interested in the intersection of technology and public policy. Fellows work on real-world AI policy issues, engage with national leaders, and receive mentorship and career support to launch or grow their careers in AI policy. Fellows can participate remotely or in Washington, D.C., with an in-person kickoff residency to build connections and gain exposure to the AI policy landscape.
Important Dates:
Program infromational webinar on Jan 21st, 2026 - RSVP HERE
June 1 – August 21, 2026
In-person residency in D.C.: June 1–12, 2026
Remote or D.C.-based participation
Program format and what to expect:
Full-time policy work with $15,000–$22,000 stipend
Mentorship from AI policy experts
Weekly coaching and feedback sessions
Opportunities to publish memos, brief officials, and attend high-level events
Remote-first structure with D.C. events and conference travel support
Who can apply:
Open to applicants from policy, technical, academic, and industry backgrounds worldwide.
Suitable for upper-level undergrads through seasoned professionals.
Strong subject matter expertise or demonstrated interest in AI policy required.
APPLY HERE BY FEBRUARY 2, 2026
7. Ember Fellowship
The Ember Fellowship is a two-year program designed for college seniors seeking a unique and impactful start to their careers post-graduation. Fellows are placed in full-time roles at startups and entrepreneurial organizations in emerging U.S. cities like Detroit, Atlanta, and Birmingham, and gain access to mentorship, AI-focused training, and a lifelong professional community.
Important Dates:
Apply by Jan 20, 2026 for Cycle 2 (Selection Day Mar 13, 2026 – New York)
Program format and what to expect:
Two-year full-time job placement in Detroit, Atlanta, or Birmingham
In-person training camp in July with workshops led by leaders from companies like OpenAI
Access to curated job board and personalized support for job matching
Ongoing community engagement, alumni mentorship, and career support
Who can apply:
College seniors or recent grads seeking to launch careers in startups or high-growth environment
Ideal for those with grit, adaptability, and a passion for leadership
No specific technical background required
APPLY HERE BY JANAURY 20, 2026
8. The Knowledge House Technology Fellowship
The Technology Fellowship, run by The Knowledge House in partnership with Synchrony Skills Academy, is a year-long job-training program designed to prepare adults for careers in data science. Based in Stamford, CT, this program equips participants with Python, SQL, and data analysis skills, while offering extensive wraparound support and career services.
Important Dates:
Apps will open again soon for 2026
Program format and what to expect:
Remote classes Monday–Wednesday (5:30–9:30pm ET)
In-person Thursdays at Synchrony Skills Academy in Stamford, CT (5:30–8:30pm ET)
Fellows receive laptops, work-study stipends, and access to career prep and tech certifications
Graduates supported with job placement in data science, analysis, or engineering
Who can apply:
Must be 18+, authorized to work in the U.S., and a resident of NY or CT
Must earn less than $55,000 annually and have a high school diploma or equivalent
Basic computer literacy required; no coding experience needed
Applicants complete a prerequisite Foundations course to qualify
LEARN MORE HERE, APPS OPEN SOON IN 2026
9. Salesforce x CodePath Futureforce Tech Launchpad
Futureforce Tech Launchpad is a free 10-week virtual summer program with a relocation stipend and a paid learning experience from CodePath and Salesforce, designed to help rising juniors build the skills, confidence, and network needed to land competitive tech internships. This program blends technical instruction with career prep, mentorship, and real-world exposure to the tech industry.
Important Dates:
Application Deadline: February 22, 2026
Attend the info session on January 22, 2026 to learn more - RSVP HERE
Program Dates: June 1 – August 7, 2026
Program format and what to expect:
10-week in-person program with live instruction and project-based learning
Curriculum focused on software engineering, technical interview prep, and career readiness
1:1 mentorship from Salesforce engineers and networking with tech professionals
Participants gain skills in coding, collaboration, and navigating the internship recruitment process
Who can apply?
Undergraduate Class of 2028 attending a U.S. college or university
Students majoring in computer science or related technical fields
Historically underrepresented students in tech are strongly encouraged to apply
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
APPLY HERE BY FEBRUARY 22, 2026
10. Coding It Forward Fellowship
The Coding it Forward Fellowship is a paid, full-time, 10-week summer experience that places early-career technologists in government offices across the U.S. Fellows work on high-impact civic tech projects in areas like data science, software engineering, product, cybersecurity, and design to make public services more effective and equitable.
Important Dates:
Application Deadline: January 19, 2026 at 11:59 PM PT
Program Dates: June 8 – August 14, 2026
Program format and what to expect:
Full-time, hybrid, remote, or in-person summer fellowship based on program placement
Projects across federal, state, and local government offices
Weekly educational programming, mentorship, and professional development
Pay rate between $20–$25/hour
Who can apply?
Must be 18+, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and located in the U.S. during the program
Open to current juniors, seniors, recent grads (May 2025–Dec 2027), and bootcamp completers (12-week min, completed May 2025–Jan 2026)
Applicants choose one track: software engineering, data, design, cybersecurity, or product management
APPLY HERE BY JANUARY 19, 2026
11. Airbnb Connect Engineering Apprenticeship
Airbnb’s Connect Engineering Apprenticeship is a 5-month, hybrid program based in San Francisco that bridges the opportunity gap for early-career software engineers from non-traditional backgrounds. Apprentices gain hands-on training, mentorship, and professional development while contributing to real projects at Airbnb.
Important Dates:
Application Opens: April 6, 2026
Program Dates: Summer–Fall 2026 (Approx. 5 months)
Program format and what to expect:
Hybrid: in-person at Airbnb’s San Francisco office and remote work
3-month curated curriculum on Airbnb’s tools and tech stack
Work on live engineering projects with dedicated code review and mentorship
Professional development through workshops and fireside chats with leadership
Who can apply?
No 4-year computer science degree required
Open to bootcamp grads, associate degree holders, or self-taught coders
Must have 2+ years of work experience, but under 1 year of professional software engineering experience
Must be proficient in basic programming concepts and Airbnb’s tech stack (React, Rails, Express)
SAVE THE DATE, APPS OPEN ON APRIL 6, 2026
12. 1871’s Campus Event in Chicago
Campus 1871 is a one-day immersive experience for college students exploring careers in Chicago’s tech scene. Hosted in partnership with ThinkChicago and World Business Chicago, the event connects students with tech companies, startups, and local leaders through workshops, panels, and networking.
Important Dates:
Event Date: February 19, 2026
Priority Registration Deadline: January 31, 2026
General Registration (Waitlist): Opens February 1, 2026
Program format and what to expect:
In-person, one-day event at 1871 Chicago
Educational sessions, company meet and greets, and breakout networking
Interactive panels and opportunities to pitch yourself
Access to hiring companies and the Chicago tech ecosystem
Who can apply?
Open to college students from partner universities with 1871 or World Business Chicago
Non-partner school students can join the waitlist
Great fit for students interested in startups, innovation, and the tech industry
APPLY HERE BY JANUARY 31, 2026
13. Wpromote Junior AI Strategist Rotation Program
Wpromote’s Junior AI Strategist Rotation Program is a one-year immersive experience designed to train the next generation of AI marketing experts. Participants receive hands-on training in AI tools, rotate through departments like Paid Media and Data Strategy, and ultimately transition into a full-time marketing role applying AI to real client projects.
Important Dates:
Application Deadline: January 16, 2026
Program Dates: Starts mid-2026 (12-month program)
Program format and what to expect:
First 3 months: AI training, ethics, prompt engineering, internal project contributions
Months 4–12: Department rotations (Media, Analytics, Client Services) applying AI to workflows and strategies
Final placement in a specialized team based on interests and performance
Remote-first, with optional office access in LA, NYC, or Chicago
Who can apply?
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in marketing, business, communications, or data science
Passionate about marketing and AI innovation
Strong communication and organizational skills
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.; no visa sponsorship provided
APPLY HERE BY JANUARY 16, 2026
14. Break Through Tech Sprinternships™
Sprinternships™ are fast-paced, three-week paid micro-internships created to help early computer science students gain hands-on industry experience. Hosted during academic breaks by top tech companies, Sprinterns™ collaborate on real business challenges, build their networks, and explore what it’s like to work in tech.
Important Dates:
Winter and summer cohorts (January and May 2026)
Applications open during the academic year
Program format and what to expect:
3-week, full-time internship (40 hours/week) during academic breaks
Work on a real-world challenge project with a team of fellow Sprinterns
Engage with tech professionals at companies like Google, Capital One, and Ticketmaster
Format varies by host company—may be in-person, hybrid, or remote
Who can apply?
Current undergraduates majoring (or planning to major/minor) in computer science or a related tech field
Must reside in the U.S. and be authorized to work without sponsorshi
Minimum 2.0 GPA required
SUBMIT YOUR INTEREST HERE
15. LaunchCode Software Development Course
LaunchCode offers a free, intensive software development course designed for adult learners with no prior coding experience. This program provides in-demand technical skills, hands-on training, and career placement support to help learners start a career in tech.
Important Dates:
Self-Guided Foundations Start: April 6, 2026
Full-Time Program: May 18 – September 15, 2026
Part-Time Program: May 18 – December 17, 2026
Women+ Cohort: June 4, 2026 – June 17, 2027
Program format and what to expect:
Free, remote learning via Zoom with local meetups in STL, KC, and PHL
Full-time (Mon–Thurs, 9am–5pm) and part-time (Tues/Thurs evenings) options
Curriculum includes JavaScript, Java, React, databases, and full stack web development
Career readiness support, technical coaching, and job placement assistance
Who can apply?
No degree or prior coding experience required
Must be located in St. Louis, Kansas City, or Philadelphia
Must have a computer, reliable internet, and the ability to commit time to study
Ideal for career changers, unemployed job seekers, or anyone exploring software careers
APPLY HERE ASAP, APPS REVIEWED ON ROLLING BASIS
16. IBM Apprenticeship Program
The IBM Apprenticeship Program is a full-time, earn-and-learn opportunity designed for people without a traditional four-year degree. Focused on skills over credentials, the program trains apprentices in software development, cybersecurity, design, and more, with hands-on mentorship and career advancement built in. Read THIS post about the program along with some application/interview advice
Important Dates:
Rolling applications throughout the year
Cohort start dates vary by role and location
Program format and what to expect:
Full-time paid apprenticeship with no tuition required
Hands-on learning with mentorship from IBM professionals
Earn digital credentials and industry certifications
Opportunities in software, cybersecurity, UX, and data analysis
Who can apply?
No college degree required
Open to non-traditional learners, career changers, and those with foundational tech skills
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
APPLY HERE ASAP, APPS REVIEWED ON ROLLING BASIS
✨ Pro tips for your applications
Start early – Some require essays/short responses, mockup projects, transcripts, etc
Tailor your application – Highlight your academic background, projects, or unique perspective. Share the story of you! People want to get to know you and how attending this program can change your life. HERE is my go-to resume guide with a template that’s landed me and other roles at top Fortune 500 companies!
Follow–up - Keep an eye on emails for deadlines and next steps. There’s always a contact email to reach out to if you have additional questions
Reach out to program alumni for application advice - You can find them on LinkedIn, or maybe TikTok if they did a vlog during the program! Don’t be afraid to pick their brains, they’re your peers!
