At CodeWizardsHQ, we’re always excited to shine a spotlight on our talented instructors. This time, we’re featuring Tyler Crocker, a seasoned teacher passionate about animation, coding, and connecting with students. His journey into the tech world is filled with gaming, creativity, and perseverance.

Gaming: The Gateway to Coding

“I’m a nerd,” Tyler Crocker jokes when asked about how he got into coding. “It was definitely through gaming. I wanted to be a game developer.” Growing up, Tyler was immersed in gaming from an early age. His first real encounter with coding came in high school when he finally had the opportunity to take a programming class. “It was on the list of electives every year, and I signed up every year,” he explains. However, the class was often canceled due to a lack of student interest. It wasn’t until his junior year that enough students enrolled, allowing the class to finally take place. “That’s when I had my first touch of coding, and I loved it,” Tyler says with enthusiasm.

Growing Up on the Move

Tyler had an unconventional upbringing, moving frequently due to his father’s work. “I grew up in a few places,” he recalls. “Long Island, Ohio, New Jersey, and I even spent about two and a half years in Germany.” His father, an electrical engineer, worked on specialized technology such as cell tower receivers, which often required the family to relocate.

Tyler’s time in Germany left a lasting impression on him. “I loved it,” he says. “It was really safe. My parents didn’t care if I went to town on my bike by myself. Everyone was nice, and the food was fantastic.” He particularly enjoyed the independence he had in Germany. “In the U.S., at least where I’ve lived, you’d usually need a car or a bus to get anywhere. But there, I could just leave my house and go to town.”

College and Self-Directed Learning

After high school, Tyler enrolled at Champlain College in Burlington, Vermont, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Game Art and Animation. It was during this time that he began teaching himself programming. “I was the only artist who actually took programming classes,” he notes.

While Tyler’s primary focus was on animation, he quickly realized that coding would be essential to his success in the field. “Animating was my passion,” he says. “But if I wanted to make my models move realistically, I needed to learn Python. So I taught myself Python to improve my animation skills.”

In addition to Python, Tyler took a few coding electives, including a class on Java. However, much of his programming knowledge was self-taught, driven by his desire to enhance his craft.

Early Career and a Pivot to Teaching

After college, Tyler landed an office job, but it wasn’t a great fit. “I was sitting in a cubicle, and it wasn’t really what I wanted.” A friend suggested that Tyler try AmeriCorps. He applied and started working with Tenacity, a program focused on literacy and tennis for middle school students in Boston. “We were in a middle school, teaching literacy in the classroom, and then we’d take the students out to teach them tennis after school,” he explains.

It was through this experience that Tyler discovered a love for teaching. “I don’t know exactly what drew me to it,” he reflects. “But I really enjoy seeing students figure things out. I love that moment when something clicks for them.”

Transitioning Into a Key Role at CodeWizardsHQ

Tyler eventually moved to Seattle, where his parents were living. “They said Seattle was great for tech jobs, so I drove across the country to look for work,” he says. As fate would have it, his stepmother found a job listing for CodeWizardsHQ, and Tyler joined the team in 2019.

“At first, I was an instructor,” he recalls. Over time, Tyler’s role expanded, and he became deeply involved in the CodeWizardsHQ Internship Program, where students take on collaborative projects and leadership roles. His experiences and dedication have helped him grow into a pivotal figure in the program’s success.

 The Internship Program and Its Impact

“In the Internship Program, I’m not really teaching,” Tyler explains. “It’s a lot more student-led. I act like a producer, helping them stay organized and on track.” Tyler’s role involves overseeing student collaboration, and ensuring that tasks are managed effectively through project management tools. Communication is a crucial focus.

Tyler finds immense value in the Internship Program. He believes it provides students with real-world experience that prepares them for future success. “I’m pretty sure with most of the interns we’ve had, when they go to college and they start a group project, they’re going to be leading them,” he states. Tyler’s leadership has been essential to the program, and his passion for mentoring has left a lasting impact on his interns.

Teaching at CodeWizardsHQ

Tyler teaches students across various age groups, including elementary, middle, and high school levels. Although his schedule keeps him busy, he loves the variety that comes with teaching different students. When it comes to subjects, Tyler has a clear preference. “I really enjoy logic,” he shares. I love teaching Python and JavaScript. I also enjoy SQL and database topics.”

When asked what he enjoys most about teaching, Tyler doesn’t hesitate. “It’s that moment when something clicks for a student. It can be frustrating at times, especially when students don’t understand something right away. But when you finally find the right way to explain it, and you hear them say, ‘Oh, I get it now,’ that’s the best part.”

Tyler also cherishes the long-term relationships he’s built with students. “I had one student who struggled a lot at first. He was coming to office hours every week. Over time, he needed less help, and eventually, his grades were 100% across the board. Seeing that slow transition was incredibly satisfying.”

Tyler’s Hobbies and Life Outside of Teaching

Outside of CodeWizardsHQ, Tyler enjoys a variety of hobbies, many of which involve gaming. He’s particularly fond of roguelike games, which feature short, repeatable gameplay loops. He also participates in speedrunning events, such as the charity marathon Games Done Quick.

“I’m also really into climbing,” Tyler adds. While he mostly sticks to indoor climbing, he tries to go twice a week when he can. Additionally, Tyler has been playing the ukulele for over a decade. “It’s one of those instruments that fits me perfectly,” he says. “I can pick it up anytime.”

At home, Tyler and his wife, Bonnie, have two rescue cats named Hero and Lucina. “Hero was found in a box outside a PetSmart, and Lucina was rescued from an air conditioner,” he shares. Recently, Tyler has taken up cooking, with a particular focus on making Japanese-style soufflé pancakes. “They’re so thick and fluffy,” he says. “I don’t think I’ll ever go back to regular pancakes again.”

A Journey of Growth and Impact

Tyler Crocker’s journey at CodeWizardsHQ is one of growth, mentorship, and impact. From an early passion for gaming to his studies in animation and programming at college, Tyler has steadily developed his skills to become a highly respected instructor. His influence goes far beyond the classroom, particularly through his leadership in the Internship Program, where he helps students take ownership of their learning and work together on real-world projects.

Whether guiding beginners or mentoring interns to develop leadership skills, Tyler’s dedication to student success and his enthusiasm for teaching make him an essential part of the CodeWizardsHQ team. His creativity, patience, and insight continue to inspire both students and colleagues alike as he shapes the next generation of coders.

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JeanAlbert Arnold’s path to becoming an educator at CodeWizardsHQ is a story of rediscovering passion, embracing lifelong learning, and finding joy in teaching. JeanAlbert has explored numerous professions, each time bringing a spirit of curiosity and a drive for innovation. Reflecting on his journey, he shares, “I’ve had other hobbies and passions in my life, but coding always comes back.” His coding journey began with a Tandy Computer.

Discovering Coding

JeanAlbert’s coding adventure began unexpectedly when his mother brought home what she thought was a game system. It was actually a Tandy Color Computer from Radio Shack. The confusion quickly turned into a defining moment for JeanAlbert. “My brothers and sisters quickly realized, ‘No, this is not the Atari we wanted.’ So they handed it to me, and it had the Tandy manual on how to program in BASIC. From the first time I got a program running, I wanted to do this for the rest of my life.” This early experience lit a spark in JeanAlbert, setting him on a path that would shape his career and personal interests profoundly.

With limited coding education opportunities, JeanAlbert was initially self-taught using library books. Then he and his dad found an evening class at the local high school. Much to their surprise, the class was comprised of only adults except for an eleven-year-old JeanAlbert. The quick learner soon found himself helping the adults with their programming projects. “By the time I was 16, I came back, and I was teaching those classes, the same classes I took years earlier.”

A Diverse Career Path

JeanAlbert navigated a unique career path, often merging his knack for technology with practical skills. His work history includes jobs where he applied his technical acumen to fix everything from intricate cameras to sophisticated sewing machines. This experience not only honed his problem-solving skills but also deepened his understanding of how things work—knowledge he brings to his coding classes. Each role he took on reinforced his passion for technology.

After a hiatus of over two decades from professional coding, he found his way back to his first love with a teaching position at CodeWizardsHQ. “Coming back to coding was like coming home. I didn’t realize how much I missed it until I started teaching these kids. Every class is a reminder of why I started in the first place,” JeanAlbert shares.

Instructing at CodeWizardsHQ

JeanAlbert has been teaching at CodeWizardsHQ  for almost a year, and during that time he has taught all levels: elementary, middle, and high school students. He shared that he enjoys teaching each age group. He appreciates elementary classes for their foundational impact, enjoying the process of guiding young minds through their initial steps in coding and watching their enthusiasm and creativity unfold. With high school students, he values the opportunity to engage with their advanced thinking and their ability to challenge programming norms. “I love the high school students because I can see how far they’ve come and how they’ve lost that fear.” JeanAlbert finds joy in witnessing students’ “aha” moments and their development from curious beginners to skilled young coders.

JeanAlbert’s teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that learning should be an engaging, interactive process. He often emphasizes the importance of making classes energetic and dynamic, particularly enjoying the curiosity and enthusiasm of his students. He believes in the power of not just teaching coding skills but also instilling confidence and resilience in his students. Reflecting on his approach, he encourages his students and peers with a simple mantra: “Just don’t be afraid to try. Just do it.” This philosophy underpins his teaching style, focusing on encouragement, practical problem-solving, and nurturing a genuine interest in learning among his students.

JeanAlbert advises parents whose kids might have that spark of coding to jump in and give it a try. “I tell them to follow their child’s curiosity and keep them challenged. Whether a student goes into coding or not, it will teach skills that will help them all across the board.” JeanAlbert has some specific insight about CodeWizardsHQ.

“This is the most incredible project I’ve ever been a part of. CodeWizards makes coding approachable and fun for the kids. I not only teach students the technical skills, but they also learn problem solving, creativity, and they most importantly learn confidence.”

Life Outside of Coding

JeanAlbert doesn’t just teach at CodeWizardsHQ; he and his wife also homeschool their 14-year-old daughter. JeanAlbert’s teaching focus is on math and science, with chemistry being a significant topic this year. This approach ensures she receives a comprehensive education in essential subjects. By teaching her at home, JeanAlbert actively shapes her academic growth and lays a solid foundation in crucial educational fields.

JeanAlbert is a lifelong learner and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in computer science at BYU Idaho. His educational journey won’t stop there; he’s especially keen on blending his interest in philosophy with technology. With an eye towards the future, he is considering pursuing a PhD, further deepening his understanding and expertise in the field.

His life outside the classroom is as rich and varied as his career path. JeanAlbert manages a small farm that he calls a “farmette,” and exclaimed that “We got our first chicken egg this morning, and we’re planning to add a couple of goats to our little farm soon!”  Other hobbies range from mushroom foraging to solving complex puzzles. He engages in painting and creative writing as well. He and his wife also recently welcomed two playful puppies, Gizmo and Luna, to their household.

Teaching Impact

JeanAlbert Arnold’s story is a vivid illustration of how diverse experiences can enrich teaching and provide a robust foundation for encouraging the next generation of learners. Through his work at CodeWizardsHQ, he not only teaches coding but also imparts life lessons on resilience, creativity, and the lifelong joy of discovery. As we look at his career and his philosophy, it’s clear that JeanAlbert is not just teaching code; he’s preparing young minds to meet the world with confidence and curiosity.

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At CodeWizardsHQ, instructors often bring fascinating experiences and unique perspectives to the virtual classroom, and Ellie Combs is no exception. From teaching coding to students across multiple time zones to riding horseback through the African Savannah, Ellie’s story is one of exploration, education, and impact.

“I love having a positive impact,” Ellie says. “Whether it is teaching horseback riding in Kenya, helping Costa Ricans get jobs through English, or teaching kids coding here at CodeWizardsHQ—it’s all about helping people develop skills they can use in real life.”

From High School Robotics to CodeWizardsHQ

Ellie’s first experience with coding came during a robotics class in high school. “I really enjoyed it,” she recalls, “but my school didn’t offer anything close to what CodeWizardsHQ does. I really wish I had this opportunity back then.”

Her coding journey resumed when a friend, a software engineer, shared resources with her. “That’s when I realized, wow, you can actually solve any problem or create anything you want with code,” Ellie explains. “And it’s so satisfying to debug an error and see the result on the other side.”

After earning a degree in international business from the University of Washington, Ellie pivoted to teaching, first in Thailand and later online during the pandemic. “I ended up teaching English online until it cleared up,” she explains. “Then I did my boot camp and found CodeWizardsHQ.”

Now a versatile instructor, Ellie teaches everything from Scratch to Python and JavaScript. “I’ve taught all of them,” she says. “They even asked me, ‘Do you have a preferred language?’ and I said, ‘Let’s do all of them!’ I love giving them all a try.”

Teaching Across Time Zones

Ellie teaches from her home in Italy, often in the late evenings. “I prefer morning central time,” she says, “because it’s afternoon or evening for me. I do teach late sometimes, but I’ve adapted to working in different time zones.”

Despite the challenges, Ellie has embraced the experience. “I’ve been at CodeWizardsHQ for over a year now, and I really enjoy it,” she says. “The students are great, and I’ve loved teaching everything from core classes to summer accelerated and AI Intro classes.”

Her favorite moments are when students take pride in their progress. “I enjoy helping the students solve their own problems,” Ellie says. “When they have that moment where they recognize their own achievements, it’s so satisfying. Or when they take leadership with their own projects. That’s really cool.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

Ellie’s teaching philosophy is grounded in her belief in empowering students to see the value of their skills. “It’s not all about the grade,” she emphasizes. “It’s about the learning. When students understand that what they’re learning can be applied in real life, that’s the best part.”

She’s a strong advocate for collaboration, which she believes is one of CodeWizardsHQ’s biggest strengths. “The small class sizes allow students to connect with each other and the teacher,” she explains. “I’ve seen them enjoy collaborating and learning together, even across different parts of the world.”

For parents considering coding classes for their children, Ellie has this advice: “Support their interest. Tech has so many different disciplines to explore.”

A Life of Adventure

Ellie’s journey has taken her around the world, with significant chapters in Thailand, Canada, and Italy. “I went to Thailand because I thought, Why not have an adventure? It was a great opportunity to travel,” Ellie explains. “I lived there for a year and taught everything from kindergarten through sixth grade at a private school.”

One recent memorable experience was during a volunteer opportunity in Kenya, where she tutored students and taught horseback riding. “It was my first time in Africa, and it was amazing,” Ellie shares. “The students had just gotten into horses, and I loved being able to share my passion for riding.”

Ellie’s love for horses began in her childhood in the Pacific Northwest, where she competed in eventing. “It’s a tri-discipline equestrian sport,” she says, “testing obedience, endurance, and agility. I still ride when I can—just recently, I did some show jumping in South Africa.”

Passion Beyond the Classroom

When she’s not teaching or riding, Ellie enjoys exploring the outdoors, cooking, and learning Italian. “I’m not really good at cooking,” she admits with a laugh, “but I’m trying to get better.” She also loves skiing, hiking, and surfing, all of which she’s enjoyed during her travels.

Living in Italy has been a highlight, but Ellie is preparing to move back to the U.S. soon. “I think I’ll be back in a few months,” she says. “I’m not sure what’s next, but I’ll figure it out.”

Looking Ahead

Ellie’s journey from teaching in Thailand to coding in Italy has been defined by her passion for learning and inspiring others. “When students understand the ‘why,’ it’s the best moment,” she shares. Her unique combination of global experience and a love for teaching has left a meaningful mark on her students. As she prepares for her next chapter, Ellie’s impact in coding education and her adventurous spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire.

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The CodeWizardsHQ High School Internship Program offers students a distinctive, hands-on coding experience that extends beyond the classroom. Designed for graduates of the high school track, this program immerses interns in real-world projects, where they collaborate, problem-solve, and build skills they can confidently showcase on college applications and personal portfolios. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, students tackle full-stack projects, gaining practical knowledge and teamwork experience that prepare them for future academic and career success.

Real-World Project: Wizard-Type

In the latest internship session, fourteen interns divided into three small teams and took on the challenge of creating Wizard-Type, an engaging typing practice tool designed to help younger students develop essential typing skills. The application allows users to select difficulty levels and practice durations, providing feedback and tracking progress to keep users motivated. Working together to bring Wizard-Type to life, interns applied their skills in Python, databases, and front-end design—moving beyond theoretical coding to tackle a real, impactful project.

Tyler Crocker, the CodeWizardsHQ internship mentor, guided the interns through the project, pushing them to think independently and solve problems. “The first step is taking off the training wheels and letting them know they’re working on something real. It’s about teaching them to trust their skills while pushing their limits,” he explained. Tyler’s mentorship helped interns shift from following structured lessons to thinking creatively and collaboratively, navigating the real-world challenges of software development.

Strengthening Teamwork, Leadership, and Problem-Solving Skills

This internship is more than just technical practice; it’s also a rich experience in teamwork and communication. As Tyler highlights, “Communication is key. When they realize that even the best code needs teamwork and feedback to make a project successful, they’re learning the kind of skills that will set them apart in college and careers.” Working in groups, each intern took on specific roles, from project management to front-end design, learning how to operate like a professional team. Some interns naturally stepped into leadership roles, guiding their teams through challenges, while others focused on technical solutions.

A Standout Addition to College Applications

Completing the CodeWizardsHQ Internship Program is a significant accomplishment. Students leave with an impressive portfolio featuring real-world projects like Wizard-Type, showcasing their ability to complete a three-month team-based project. 

For students serious about coding, the CodeWizardsHQ Internship Program is more than a learning opportunity; it’s a transformative experience. By the end of the program, interns don’t just know how to code—they know how to build, collaborate, and lead. This journey from the classroom to the real world is what makes the CodeWizardsHQ Internship an invaluable step for aspiring programmers.

Introducing Our Interns

CodeWizardsHQ is incredibly proud of our interns for their hard work, creativity, and dedication throughout the program. Each intern brought unique skills and perspectives, making this cohort an inspiring example of collaboration and innovation. We are excited to introduce each of our interns, showcasing their skills, accomplishments, and dedication to the program.

Adam L.

Adam excels in Python and enjoys 3D game development. At CodeWizardsHQ, he thrived in collaborative, real-world coding experiences. Outside of coding, he builds FPV quadcopters, maintains ant colonies, and enjoys golf. Adam is exploring a career in cybersecurity or law.

Andrew G.

Andrew combines coding and creativity. He served as a VEX Robotics Team Lead and achieved USACO Gold. He is a Chinese Youth Camp counselor and AP Scholar with Distinction. The internship’s hands-on experience resonated with him, preparing him for a future as a software developer.

Audrey B.

Audrey brings creativity to her coding projects, from her active roles in Web Design and Python Programming Clubs to her collaborative work in the CodeWizardsHQ internship. With a strong interest in AI and web design, Audrey plans to major in computer science in college.

Benjamin F.

Benjamin, a student and robotics technician, brings his skills in software development and robotics to life, especially through collaborative work. At CodeWizardsHQ, he valued teamwork and growth, pushing him toward a future in engineering, with interests in nuclear, electrical, and robotics fields.

Colin M.

Colin gained teamwork experience through his internship complementing his role as captain and software lead for his robotics team. He manages several websites and plans to study software development or computer engineering. He has additional interests in Taekwondo and robotics.

Gabriel D.

Gabriel is a recent high school graduate with experience in honors coursework and a completed Senior Service Project. Gabriel appreciated the trust and responsibility placed on him during his internship. He plans a future in the ministry. Outside of coding, Gabriel participates in fitness activities and plays guitar.

James H.

James enjoyed the team spirit at CodeWizardsHQ, collaborating on projects and tackling coding challenges. As a webmaster for the National Society Children of the American Revolution, he balances coding with sports and community service, aiming to make an impact through tech.

Lauren C.

Lauren loves designing websites and using CSS to bring ideas to life. She recounts that her internship taught her the importance of collaboration. She’s also an avid reader and artist. She hopes to join her school’s Academic Decathlon team and pursue a career in web design.

Niket S.

Niket ranks in the top 5% of his class. He enjoyed the internship’s realistic tech environment, where he felt like part of a professional team. Passionate about quantum computing and AI, Niket aspires to merge these fields, having attended renowned programs like UT Austin’s ML camp and Stanford’s pre-collegiate program.

Rena J.

Rena is an enthusiastic coder participating in the TeenTechSF Hackathon and in her school’s Girls Who Code Cub. During her internship, she enjoyed building a complex website collaboratively and learning team dynamics with tools like GitHub. She aspires to study computer science and engineering to create meaningful technology in the future.

Rucha D.

Rucha enjoys the creative aspects of coding, especially in web design with HTML and CSS. She states that her internship taught her the value of teamwork. Outside of tech, she enjoys tennis, guitar, and cooking. She is considering a future in computer science.

Soojin A.

Soojin, a Python enthusiast, found the internship rewarding, saying that it enhanced her coding and teamwork skills. Her current project, a book recommendation website, reflects her creativity. She aspires to be a data scientist. Soojin is a recipient of the Golden Presidential Volunteer Service Award.

Sophia L.

Sophia excels academically and on the golf course. She was a recent finalist in a junior invitational. At CodeWizardsHQ, she learned collaboration using GitHub and VSCode. She enjoys coding, golfing, and gaming and looks forward to exploring software development further.

Zachary G.

Zachary is passionate about web development and excels at JavaScript. He enjoyed working together with his peers during his internship. Zachary participates in AP Computer Science and Coding Cub at school.  He’s set on studying computer science at the University of Florida and pursuing a career in IT.

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When learning to code, having an enthusiastic, understanding instructor can make all the difference. This is exactly the kind of experience students get with Nathan West, one of CodeWizardsHQ’s standout instructors. Whether teaching Scratch to elementary students or guiding high schoolers through Python, Nathan’s path to programming and his passion for teaching shine through.

Discovering the World of Coding

Nathan’s journey with coding started a bit later than you might expect. “I was always interested in computers when I was younger,” he recalls. He was drawn to exploring the hardware of his family’s “old beat-up desktop,” but it wasn’t until his senior year of high school that he dabbled in programming. His first taste? An AP Computer Science course that introduced him to the basics. “That’s what got me interested in it,” he says. Nathan wanted to move beyond that and was soon captivated by text coding.

Once in college, however, Nathan took an unexpected detour into aerospace engineering. “By my sophomore year; that’s when I really started taking an interest in programming,” he shares. “I decided, you know what, I’m just going to switch to computer science.” It’s a decision he doesn’t regret, explaining that “four years later, here I am, and I can’t really see myself doing anything else.”

Finding CodeWizardsHQ

Like many college students, Nathan took on various jobs to support himself during his studies, but by last summer, he felt it was time to find a position more aligned with his future career in tech. That’s when he discovered CodeWizardsHQ. “I saw their part-time coding instructor position and thought, ‘Okay, why not?’” Little did he know it would be the perfect fit, allowing him to combine his passion for coding with his growing interest in teaching.

Six months later, Nathan teaches a variety of courses at CodeWizardsHQ. “I teach Scratch, web design, Python, Java— pretty much everything at the first level,” he says. With students ranging from elementary to high school, he’s found a niche in engaging and inspiring young coders.

A Love for Teaching and Connecting with Students

Nathan’s teaching style is rooted in making coding fun and accessible. While he enjoys all age groups, he notes that the younger students bring a unique energy to his classes. “The younger students are definitely more interactive, more excited,” he says. “They have all these dreams, and you can see that spark.” But his high school students also hold a special place in his heart, even if they’re a bit more reserved. “High schoolers are stressed with other things, so they might not seem as interested, but they still are.”

For Nathan, the ideal classroom is one where students are engaging with each other as well as with him. Recently, he noticed his HTML class students cheering for one of their peers who was featured in a weekly challenge spotlight. “They were like, ‘Oh, congratulations! Good job!’” he recalls. These moments of camaraderie are what Nathan hopes to foster in his virtual classrooms.

A Teacher Who Learns Alongside His Students

Teaching, as Nathan has found, has its own learning curve. Patience and communication, he admits, are two skills he’s honed since joining CodeWizardsHQ. “Patience is very, very important,” he emphasizes. He reflects on how he has to remind himself to slow down and think back to when he first learned programming. “Teaching has helped me be more careful with my words and how I explain things.” These skills, he believes, will not only make him a better instructor but also a more effective communicator in any field he enters.

Building Critical Skills Through Coding

When asked what he’d say to parents considering enrolling their kids in a coding program, Nathan is thoughtful and passionate. “Coding should be a normal part of middle school and high school curriculum, just like math and science,” he insists. Coding, he believes, teaches invaluable critical thinking skills. “It’s not necessarily the actual coding skill that’s most valuable—it’s the critical thinking that you develop,” he explains. This skill, he notes, “trains your brain to think in a way that can help in a lot of other areas.”

What impresses Nathan most about CodeWizardsHQ is the variety and depth of the courses offered. Reflecting on his high school AP Computer Science class that focused only on Scratch, he notes how CodeWizardsHQ’s curriculum includes Java, Python, web development, databases, and more. “There’s a lot of topics that are covered, and I think that’s pretty much what impressed me the most,” he says, adding that the courses are designed to engage students and build real-world skills.

Life Beyond Coding

When he’s not teaching or studying, Nathan is quite the adventurer! Just this past summer, he traveled to South Korea. “It was amazing to see a blend of modernism with skyscrapers like New York City and the old architecture of the palaces,” he recalls. His travels didn’t stop there; he also spent a week in Japan, soaking in the food, culture, and incredibly clean cityscapes.

Though life’s busy with college and work, Nathan still finds time for a few favorite pastimes. Recently, he’s been playing tennis with friends, enjoying the chance to be active and outdoors. And, he mentions, there’s Oscar, the “really naughty orange tabby” at his family home who keeps things lively.

As Nathan prepares for graduation next spring, his focus remains on teaching and expanding his skills. For now, he’s content where he is, making a difference in his students’ lives and helping them discover the joy and challenge of coding. With his ability to connect, inspire, and create a supportive learning environment, Nathan isn’t just teaching them to code—he’s fostering their confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills, helping shape the next generation of tech innovators.

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CodeWizardsHQ instructor Michael Maldonado’s journey from an aspiring game developer to an inspiring coding instructor is truly impressive. From the moment he first tinkered with an old laptop to his present-day endeavors in college and teaching at CodeWizardsHQ, Michael has consistently shown a passion for both learning and helping others discover their potential in coding.

How It All Began: The Spark of Coding

Michael’s introduction to coding came at a young age, sparked by his curiosity and a desire to create video games. Reflecting on that first experience, he recalls, “Back in 2007, I had a very old Dell laptop. The hinge couldn’t even hold the screen anymore, so I had to prop it up against a wall. I really wanted to make games, so I looked it up on Google and found something called GameMaker by YoYo Games.” Using a language similar to JavaScript, he dove into coding, creating platformers like Mario.

That early passion eventually deepened, and by high school, Michael was looking into mobile game development for Android. Despite not having many formal coding opportunities, he didn’t let that stop him. “A lot of it was self-taught,” he says. “I didn’t really have a CodeWizardsHQ back then, so it was just looking at documentation online or following tutorials.”

His persistence paid off. By his senior year of high school, he found himself in a modeling and simulation class, where he worked tirelessly to create a game or simulation for his senior project. Against all odds, working solo while his classmates had years and teams of support, Michael took second place in a competition and earned a scholarship and internship. This moment was a turning point, solidifying his determination to pursue a career in coding. Currently, Michael is attending Seminole State College in Central Florida, working toward a degree in computer science. 

Teaching at CodeWizardsHQ: A Fulfilling Experience

Michael discovered CodeWizardsHQ while searching for part-time coding-related jobs that would allow him to combine his passion for programming with his college schedule. After stumbling upon an online ad, he saw the opportunity to teach coding to students and thought it aligned well with his skills and interests. Teaching at CodeWizardsHQ has allowed him to connect with students while helping them navigate the world of programming. “I feel like a lot of people have a weird perception of what coding might mean—maybe it’s a lot of math or something like that,” he explains. “But I feel like it’s something anyone can do. You don’t have to be a math genius. You just need a little confidence and some interest in it.”

When it comes to teaching, Michael’s passion for coding is evident in every class he leads. He primarily teaches Python and enjoys helping students build their foundational knowledge. His favorite language to teach is Java, which he describes as providing a deeper understanding of programming concepts. “It tackles a lot of the ‘why’ in programming,” he explains. “Python is a great introduction because it simplifies things, but Java lets us break things down and really understand what’s going on behind the scenes.”

What Michael enjoys most about teaching at CodeWizardsHQ is the opportunity to inspire students. “I think coding is really cool because there are projects in every hobby or industry,” he says. “You can make an app for anything you’re interested in.” His goal as an instructor is to make coding accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their background.

Teaching at CodeWizardsHQ has been rewarding for Michael. “In my first Python class, I had one student who said, ‘Are you going to be my teacher in the future? I really like the way you teach.’ That took me aback, but it made me feel pretty accomplished to know I was making a positive impact.”

Michael is a firm believer in giving kids and teens the opportunity to learn to code and in particular, using the CodeWizardsHQ method.

“There are millions of ways to learn things on the Internet. But not everyone has the discipline to stay on top of what they’re learning. And that’s pretty normal. You have to really want something to stick to it, especially for a long time. But here, at CodeWizards you have a person dedicated to pushing your child along that journey, they’re not on their own, which I think is a really important part of trying to learn anything.”

Hobbies and Aspirations: From Vinyl Records to Game Design

While Michael’s primary focus is on college and teaching, his hobbies reflect his diverse range of interests. He’s an avid collector of vinyl records, with a particular fondness for indie bands. “I haven’t been to any concerts yet,” he admits, “but I plan on going in the future.” 

Travel has also become a recent passion for Michael. Over the past year, he’s visited Spain, Japan, and British Columbia. “Japan was amazing,” he recalls. “Walking around Kyoto at night, the streets were empty and peaceful. It was one of the most serene experiences I’ve ever had.” His travels have broadened his perspective and fed into his creative pursuits, particularly his love for game design.

In fact, game design remains a significant part of Michael’s aspirations. He has been working on a prototype for a board game that he hopes to eventually kickstart. “I’ve always wanted to create something that brings friends and families together,” he shares. “A lot of my fondest memories as a kid were playing couch co-op games with my siblings, and I want to create that same experience for others.”

Looking Ahead: Michael’s Future in Tech

As he looks toward the future, Michael has big plans. While he’s considering working for a large company to gain experience, his ultimate goal is to become self-employed. “I have a whole notebook of things I eventually want to create,” he says. “I have a very entrepreneurial mindset, and I want to explore more of my personal projects after college.”

Michael Maldonado is a shining example of what it means to be both a lifelong learner and a dedicated teacher. His journey, from a young boy coding on a broken laptop to a college student inspiring the next generation of coders, is just beginning—and the future looks bright.

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At CodeWizardsHQ, we pride ourselves on our exceptional team of instructors, each bringing their unique story and passion for coding to the classroom. Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight one of our dedicated instructors, Ella Baldoz, whose journey to becoming a coding teacher is as inspiring as it is diverse.

A Journey From Nursing to Coding

Ella’s path to coding wasn’t a straight line. It began in middle school when she casually dabbled in HTML while editing her Myspace and Tumblr profiles. “I was one of those kids on Tumblr, and Myspace type of girl,” Ella recalls. “I was editing my profile, messing with HTML without even knowing really that I was coding.” This early exposure sparked her interest, but it wasn’t until years later that she would fully immerse herself in the world of coding.

After high school, Ella pursued a career in nursing. She became a licensed nurse and worked in the field for several years, including during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, after five years, she found herself questioning her career path. “I was really burnt out, and I thought, you know what? Maybe this is not for me,” she reflects. It was during this period of self-reflection that Ella decided to return to something she had enjoyed in the past—coding.

Determined to change her career path, Ella took a break from nursing and began teaching herself coding concepts. She revisited HTML, enrolled in self-paced courses, and even started building her own websites. “I really do enjoy this,” she realized. “This is something that I really want to do.” Her newfound passion led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree in software engineering from Western Governors University, a program she completed in just two years while working.

Finding Her Passion in Teaching

While Ella was transitioning careers, she stumbled upon a job posting for CodeWizardsHQ. The role combined two of her passions—coding and teaching—and she knew it was the perfect fit. Before diving into software engineering, Ella had already gained experience as a Director of Staff Development in her nursing career, where she taught classes to nursing assistants. This teaching background made the transition to teaching coding a natural one.

“When I saw that it was coding and teaching, I thought this is what I want to do,” Ella explains. “It combined two of my skills together.” At CodeWizardsHQ, Ella found a role that not only utilized her technical skills but also allowed her to share her love of coding with young students.

Ella’s Typical Week

Ella’s weekly schedule is a balance of both her passions. From Monday through Thursday, she teaches three to four coding classes at CodeWizardsHQ, focusing primarily on introductory courses such as Animations and Games With Scratch and Introduction to Programming With Python. “It doesn’t even feel like a job sometimes,” she says with a smile. “It feels like I’m hanging out with a bunch of kids, which is very cool.”

When she’s not teaching coding, Ella continues to work part-time as a nurse. This dual career allows her to stay connected to the nursing field while pursuing her passion for coding and teaching. “I work as a nurse usually on Saturday and Sunday, and then I work PM shifts sometimes on Tuesday,” she shares. Despite juggling two demanding roles, Ella finds joy in both, noting that they fit together “like a puzzle.”

Teaching Philosophy and Classroom Moments

When asked about her favorite moments in the classroom, Ella emphasizes the importance of collaboration among her students. “What I like the most is when I’m helping a student troubleshoot something, and instead of just me troubleshooting it, the students all come together to help,” she explains. Ella finds great satisfaction in seeing her students interact, share ideas, and learn from one another.

Ella’s favorite age group to teach is elementary school students. “I think it’s kind of like a breath of fresh air when I teach younger kids,” she says. She enjoys their enthusiasm, curiosity, and the way they openly express their thoughts. “They’re so talkative. They always have their cameras on. They’re not afraid to speak their mind, and they’re just so cute.”

While she loves teaching all levels, Ella particularly enjoys teaching Scratch to elementary students because it’s their first introduction to coding. “It’s kind of like their beginning stage of coding, so they have a lot of questions,” she says. “Seeing it click together in their head is nice.”

Advice for Parents and Aspiring Coders

Ella is passionate about encouraging parents to support their children’s interest in coding. Reflecting on her own experience, she wishes she had had access to a program like CodeWizardsHQ when she was younger. “I feel like putting your kid into a school where their classmates also enjoy coding, where you get to interact with a teacher who is there to help you, is a the best way to learn,” she says. She believes that the skills learned in coding classes, such as problem-solving and active listening, are valuable beyond the realm of coding and can benefit students in any future career.

For parents considering CodeWizardsHQ, Ella’s message is clear: “Just do it.” She highlights the supportive environment and the opportunity for students to grow their passion for coding in a community of like-minded peers.

Life Beyond the Classroom

Outside of teaching and nursing, Ella enjoys a variety of hobbies that keep her active and engaged. She loves hiking in the beautiful Bay Area, where she recently visited Yosemite, and has a passion for traveling. Last year, she visited the Philippines and Japan, and she’s planning a trip to Thailand and Japan this year.

At home, Ella shares her life with her family, including her parents, sister, and three young nieces and nephews. She also has a beloved dog named Stitch, a French Bulldog and Pit Bull mix, who brings joy to her daily life.

Ella also values maintaining her health and well-being. She’s recently taken up Pilates, attending classes twice a week. “I really want to prioritize and start taking my health a little bit more seriously,” she says, recognizing the importance of finding balance in her busy life.

Final Thoughts

Ella’s journey from nursing to coding and teaching is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and being open to new opportunities. At CodeWizardsHQ, she has found a fulfilling role where she can inspire the next generation of coders while continuing to grow and learn herself.

For Ella, teaching is more than just a job; it’s a way to connect with students, share her love of coding, and make a lasting impact on their lives. We’re proud to have her as part of our team and excited to see the positive influence she continues to have on her students.

The post Instructor Spotlight: Ella Baldoz appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone at CodeWizardsHQ—reaching 1,000 5-Star Trustpilot reviews! This achievement is not just a number; it’s a testament to the trust and support of our incredible coding families. Each review represents a story of learning, growth, and empowerment. We are deeply grateful to our community for being an integral part of this journey.

Our Founder’s Personal Journey into Coding

Our story began with a personal quest. Our founder, Jey Iyempandi, was driven by a need to understand coding in a technology-centric world, both for professional advancement and everyday problem-solving. His journey through self-paced online courses was fruitful, but it highlighted a gap regarding his daughter’s coding education. The existing resources were great for self-motivated adults but fell short for young learners who needed more interaction and structure.

The Birth of CodeWizardsHQ

Faced with his daughter’s frequent requests for help, Jey spent the summer of 2014 dedicating over 200 hours to teaching her how to code. While it was a rewarding experience, it was also clear that a more sustainable approach was needed—one that combined the benefits of live instruction with the flexibility of online learning.

In the summer of 2015, Jey tested his idea. He gathered a small group of students through social media and led the classes himself. The experiment was a success, and the positive feedback from students and parents alike was overwhelming. This experience paved the way for what CodeWizardsHQ is today—a pioneering educational platform dedicated to teaching coding to children through live, teacher-led classes.

A Legacy of Empowering Young Coders

As we celebrate our ninth anniversary, it’s incredible to see how far we’ve come. From Jey’s initial endeavor to teach his daughter to impacting thousands of young learners, our mission has remained steadfast: to provide an empowering and effective learning environment that prepares students for the future. Our programs now boast a 93% success rate, far surpassing traditional self-paced methods.

Looking Forward: Continuing the Journey

This milestone of 1,000 5-star Trustpilot reviews reinforces our commitment to our mission. Each review shared by our coding families fuels our passion and dedication. It’s not just feedback; it’s the motivation that drives us to continually enhance our programs and support our students’ journeys in the world of coding.

Thank you to all the students, parents, instructors, and CodeWizardsHQ staff who have joined us on this incredible journey. Here’s to many more milestones to come as we continue to empower the next generation of coders, one line of code at a time!

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Meet Ethan Edgington, an enthusiastic and committed instructor at CodeWizardsHQ who exemplifies the ideal mentor for young, aspiring coders. Ethan’s journey with CodeWizardsHQ began in the summer of 2023, and he makes a significant impact through his passionate teaching. His story is not just about teaching code but also inspiring a new generation to embrace technology creatively and confidently.

Early Beginnings in Coding

Ethan’s coding adventure started at the age of eleven, when he discovered an online course that allowed him to mod Minecraft. This experience transformed his perspective on coding, turning it from an intimidating challenge into an accessible and enjoyable activity. “I remember thinking it was basically too far beyond my reach… But I learned how to mod my own items and blocks inside of Minecraft, and that was just like the coolest thing ever,” Ethan shares. This pivotal moment sparked his lifelong passion for coding, setting the stage for his future role as an educator. “All of a sudden, it was making sense to me. And all of a sudden, it was like the only thing I could think about,” he recalls about his early coding days.

Educational Journey and Teaching Philosophy

Growing up in San Antonio, Texas, Ethan was homeschooled, which allowed him to explore his interests deeply, particularly in programming and technology. His personal learning experiences have profoundly shaped his teaching approach at CodeWizardsHQ. After his initial coding spark, Ethan continued to dabble in programming and animation, learning from online sources. His work progressed in complexity. He continued to mod in Minecraft and eventually created a Minecraft server with the goal of developing his own games. He supplemented his independent learning with AP Computer Science in high school. 

When it came time to select a college, Ethan was drawn to Texas A&M. The electrical engineering student is now in his senior year. He is specifically interested in the hardware side of computing and the interconnectivity between devices. He is still fascinated by game development, though, and is president of the Game Developers Club at Texas A&M.

Ethan was searching for a summer position in 2023 when he stumbled upon CodeWizardsHQ. He found the idea of teaching kids to code to be very appealing. He comes from a family of teachers and has tutored previously. In his role in the Game Developers Club, Ethan regularly assists members with their code and teaches them how to make games. Ethan has become a summer fixture at CodeWizardsHQ, returning for his second season this year.

Ethan teaches all levels, elementary, middle, and high school, and concentrates mainly on Python classes. He likes teaching Python as well as Java. Ethan finds it most rewarding when students are driven to learn and understand, but he enjoys inspiring students with varying levels of interest. Ethan explains his teaching philosophy. “If a student really loves programming and wants to learn, I want to take that to the next level and give them ideas of how they can do more. How do we go above a hundred percent?”

For students who might not quite have a passion yet, Ethan has a different approach. “I’m not just trying to get them to pass. That’s the main goal, but I also want them to learn why they should care, why they should love programming, and how they can find this interesting in their own eyes.”

Ethan explains why he especially enjoys teaching kids how to code. “Children have so much potential that can be harnessed inside a classroom. I look forward to guiding them to harness it as they grow and being a catalyst for their development. I want to be the guy who gets to nurture the next future developer at Snapchat, Instagram, or Facebook.”

Ethan has specific advice for parents interested in exploring a coding education for their children. First, it must stem from a child-directed interest, and then they must be motivated to learn.

“That’s where CodeWizards comes in. If you have the right teacher and the right activity, then all of a sudden, it’s not like they’re in school but learning a concept, and it’s something that they want to do. That’s their baby that they get to create, and I think CodeWizards nurtures that environment phenomenally. As a company, that’s what we’re founded on. We’re devoted to having a high standard of quality that I think we definitely meet.”

Hobbies and Downtime

Outside of his demanding electrical engineering courseload and teaching at CodeWizardsHQ, Ethan finds his work as President of the Game Developers Club very rewarding. He likes being around like-minded people and giving back to his community. He gains a great deal of satisfaction from serving the club members and improving their experiences. Ethan explains the high point of the club’s year.

“We hold a game jam throughout each semester. In week two, we’ll announce what the theme is, and then people just break into teams, and then they’re making a game throughout the semester alongside their schoolwork. We all present our games at the end of the semester.”

Exceptional Coding Educator

Ethan exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional educator at CodeWizardsHQ. His blend of personal coding passion, educational insight, and commitment to nurturing young minds aligns seamlessly with the organization’s mission to equip the next generation of coders. Ethan not only teaches coding; he inspires a new wave of thinkers, innovators, and creators, ready to explore the endless possibilities that coding and technology have to offer.

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Meet Niki Durey, an enthusiastic instructor at CodeWizardsHQ, whose coding journey is as inspiring as her teaching style. Niki’s story isn’t just about becoming proficient in programming languages; it’s about inspiring a new generation to explore and excel in the world of technology.

Early Sparks of Interest in Coding

Niki’s coding adventure began somewhat unexpectedly in the 8th grade, sparked by a proactive math teacher during the Hour of Code and an introduction to Scratch. This early exposure to Scratch, a programming language designed for beginners, was her gateway into the world of coding. “It was like a switch clicked in my brain where I was like, Oh, I could make something that does something,” Niki recalled. This revelation led her to dream about creating video games, turning a casual interest into a lifelong passion.

Self-Taught Expertise and High School Exploration

Initially self-taught, Niki used online resources to delve deeper into coding long before she received formal instruction. By the end of middle school, she had already created a 2D version of a world generator, reminiscent of her favorite game, Minecraft. High school brought more structured opportunities, including joining a robotics team and learning Java, followed by Python. These experiences not only refined her coding skills but also mirrored the progression she now advocates for at CodeWizardsHQ, learning concepts in Scratch and then Python. During high school, Niki took college-level courses in software and game development, further expanding her knowledge and passion for coding.

After high school, Niki applied her skills practically, taking on a significant project to overhaul a company’s website as an intern. This real-world application of her skills was a prelude to her future in teaching. After finding CodeWizardsHQ through a job search, she saw an opportunity to give back. “I saw CodeWizards, and I thought I would love to be able to give back in that way, to give kids that same experience that I had, especially since they teach so much earlier than even I got to learn,” she explained.

Teaching Philosophy

Niki’s teaching philosophy mirrors the CodeWizards approach. She believes coding is as much about problem-solving and creativity as it is about technical acumen. “One of my favorite things that I’ve learned in teaching is that failure is not a bad thing,” she explains. Niki values the process of learning through failure, teaching her students that setbacks are just stepping stones to greater understanding and success. 

Her classes are interactive, encouraging students to experiment and learn from each interaction. Whether it’s explaining code to a rubber duck to debug a problem or designing their own websites in HTML and CSS, Niki’s students get a holistic learning experience that is both challenging and rewarding.

Beyond CodeWizardsHQ

Outside of teaching, Niki continues to pursue her passion for game development and storytelling, working on personal projects that include game design. She is also an avid Dungeons and Dragons player and game master, where she brings stories to life, weaving narratives and guiding players through complex, imaginative worlds.

Niki Durey’s journey from a curious student to a passionate educator highlights the transformative power of coding education. At CodeWizardsHQ, she not only teaches coding but also inspires her students to see the possibilities beyond the code. As coding becomes increasingly integral to our digital world, educators like Niki are crucial in shaping the innovative minds of the future, making coding accessible, enjoyable, and impactful.

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