As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, the way we approach coding and tech education is also evolving. The concept of “vibe coding” is gaining traction, offering a more intuitive form of coding where an AI assistant creates code based on developer prompts. This transformational tool is just one example of the many capabilities that technology has to offer.

At Kode With Klossy (KWK), the focus is not just on producing software engineers, but on creating a generation of young technologists and lifelong learners of technology. The introduction of AI tools like the AI Compass is aimed at teaching members of the community how to make responsible decisions when using AI to support desired outcomes.

While AI and automation may change the landscape of traditional coding, the importance of learning to code goes beyond just writing lines of code. Coding teaches computational thinking, problem-solving, pattern recognition, and algorithmic thinking, skills that are valuable across various industries.

However, alongside technical skills, soft skills like entrepreneurialism, risk-taking, and discernment are becoming increasingly important. In a world where AI can generate basic apps, individuals with a sense of taste and judgment will stand out and drive innovation.

At KWK, the demographic of scholars is diverse, with a focus on underrepresented groups in tech. The organization has seen success in encouraging young women and gender-expansive teens to pursue computer science degrees, with a significantly higher percentage compared to the national average.

Looking ahead, the focus is on creating opportunities for both individual skill-building and systemic change within corporate spaces. The next decade of work at KWK involves exploring corporate partnerships and addressing the conditions for success in the tech industry.

As we navigate the ever-changing tech landscape, it is clear that the future of coding and tech education is not just about writing code, but about cultivating a diverse set of skills and fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity.

Through that partnership with like-minded, values-aligned companies, it’s the processes, practices, and policies that we hope we can start to change.

Because you’re absolutely right. Your research on the “broken rung”—this phenomenon of young women not being promoted into their first manager role at the same rate as their male peers—that phenomenon is sitting right in front of where our young people in our community are about to be.

Karlie Kloss: Lareina, you are championing exactly this point and these problems that continue to exist and be perpetuated. The first step to a solution is bringing it into the light, and you are doing that.

Lareina Yee: I think you captured it: the idea that it’s not just learning the technical capabilities of being able to code or use AI tools. It’s the conjunction of the mindset shift. That’s the aha and the magic.

And maybe just to ask you what you think: A lot of people feel like jobs and opportunities are a young person’s game. What if I’m a 50-year-old woman, a 42-year-old woman, or a 45-year-old man, and I’m saying, “I need to participate in this.” What advice or thoughts would you have about building technical skills?

Osi Imeokparia: I mean, we’re all in this boat, right? I am all the ages you mentioned. I’m actually 47, if we’re going to put it on the record. But I got a computer science degree, and that was not the magic unlock. That is not going to help me in this moment of AI change. I also have to go back to the drawing board and relearn skills, but I have the benefit of having a technical foundation and the confidence to not be scared to meet this moment. Courage is the input, and confidence is the output of your experiential learning.

The other piece is that so much of the foundation of our pedagogy is that you have to do it. You cannot only talk about it in the abstract. Project-based learning allows you to get your hands dirty. And so part of this is just trying something. You could be a mom who has to organize all the thousands of emails you get from the school every day about something happening with your child. Try to use AI to solve a real problem that you are personally having.

Personalizing the learning journey, which is, again, something we have learned through our programming, is really important.

Shaping an equitable tech future

Lareina Yee: Karlie, what do you tell people in creative industries who are scared of AI and technology and worried about being disintermediated? How do you help them—or how do you think about that?

Karlie Kloss: I acquired i-D magazine about a year and a half ago, and we’ve tried to be principles-first in thinking about how we rebuild certain parts of the business. There are a lot of antiquated aspects that are not protecting and preserving creative integrity.

To me, what matters is: How do we utilize technology to preserve and protect humanity—the creativity? How do we use technology to further unlock that?

I think people’s innate reaction is fear. But if that’s your only response, you’re going to get left behind. What I care deeply about is: How do we use technology—because it’s happening, AI is happening—to further unlock our human potential?

There’s a question, too, of where we want to draw the line. I’m a model—someone could take my physical IP [intellectual property] and turn it into an image and sell against that. How do I feel about that? I don’t feel good about that. So how do I protect that?

We’re opening Pandora’s box. I try to be an optimist but also a realist about it. AI is happening. How do we ensure that equity is guiding its development? Because that has not always been the case at moments of change and inflection in history. Women need to be part of this. People of all lived experiences need to help inform, shape, and guide it.

Osi Imeokparia: That same phenomenon is happening on the technology side, too. In these moments, you elevate the human creative engines around editorial and taste. That doesn’t go away.

But these things aren’t just going to happen. We need to take active roles in shaping the outcomes we want.

Karlie Kloss: This is why we need policymakers who understand the significance of this moment—and of this technology as well.

Lareina Yee: I hear so much urgency in both of your voices, and certainly in what you’re saying. The typical question would be, “Ten years from now, what would you like to see?” But ten years is so far away.

In the next two years, what would you love to see? Give us a sense of what you see around the corner—leveraging all these technologies, moving Kode With Klossy forward, or some of your entrepreneurial activities.

Osi Imeokparia: In two years—at least from the Kode With Klossy work—I hope that we’ve made inroads, as I described, with some of our corporate partners around structural change.

Strategies for Retaining Women in the Workplace and Addressing the Broken-Rung Phenomenon

In today’s corporate landscape, the retention of women in the workplace remains a critical issue, especially when considering the broken-rung phenomenon that hinders their advancement in leadership positions. Organizations must implement policies, programs, and practices that address this innate inequity and promote gender diversity and inclusion. By focusing on creating a supportive community and providing opportunities for professional development, companies can work towards closing the gender gap in the workforce.

The Importance of Community in Career Persistence

When women pursue careers in male-dominated fields such as computer science, electrical engineering, and biology, they often find themselves as the “only” in the room, facing isolation and lack of representation. To overcome this challenge, it is crucial for women to find their tribe, a supportive community of like-minded individuals who can provide mentorship, encouragement, and networking opportunities. By connecting with others who share similar ambitions and interests, women can navigate the complexities of STEM fields and thrive in their careers.

As Osi Imeokparia, a leader in the tech industry, emphasizes, “Everything is better with friends.” By building a community of peers, women can leverage their collective knowledge and experiences to overcome obstacles and achieve success in their professional endeavors.

The Role of Leadership in Facilitating Tech Transitions

Leaders play a crucial role in driving organizational change and fostering innovation, particularly in the rapidly evolving landscape of technology. As AI continues to transform industries and business practices, it is essential for leaders to embrace this moment and seize the opportunities that AI presents. By demonstrating a commitment to personal AI mastery and leading by example, executives can inspire their teams to embrace change and adapt to the demands of the digital age.

Karlie Kloss, a renowned model and entrepreneur, advises organizations to embrace the AI transformation and not succumb to fear. By challenging themselves to innovate and evolve, companies can position themselves for success in an increasingly competitive market.

Recommendations for McKinsey and Other Leading Organizations

As McKinsey and other top consulting firms navigate the complexities of the digital age, it is crucial for them to lead by example and demonstrate a commitment to AI mastery. By investing in training and development programs for their employees and creating a culture of continuous learning, these organizations can stay ahead of the curve and drive innovation in their respective industries.

Furthermore, leaders at McKinsey should prioritize diversity and inclusion initiatives to address the gender gap in the workplace and promote women’s advancement in leadership roles. By creating a supportive environment where women feel empowered to succeed, McKinsey can attract and retain top talent and foster a culture of equality and opportunity for all employees.

FAQ

Q: How can organizations address the broken-rung phenomenon and promote gender diversity in the workplace?

A: Organizations can implement policies and programs that support women’s advancement, such as mentorship programs, leadership development initiatives, and flexible work arrangements. By creating a culture of inclusivity and equality, companies can attract and retain top female talent and promote gender diversity in the workforce.

Q: What role do leaders play in driving tech transitions and fostering innovation?

A: Leaders have a critical role in guiding their organizations through technological transitions and inspiring their teams to embrace change. By demonstrating a commitment to personal growth and innovation, executives can set the tone for organizational success and drive innovation in the digital age.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the retention of women in the workplace and the advancement of gender diversity are essential priorities for organizations seeking to thrive in the digital age. By creating a supportive community, fostering leadership development, and embracing technological innovation, companies can position themselves for success and drive meaningful change in the workforce. Leaders must lead by example and champion diversity and inclusion initiatives to create a more equitable and inclusive workplace for all employees.

As we look towards the future, it is imperative for organizations to prioritize gender equality and support women in their professional growth and development. By working together to address the broken-rung phenomenon and promote diversity and inclusion, we can create a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all.

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be difficult to keep up with the latest news and trends. With so much information bombarding us on a daily basis, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and lost. But fear not, there are ways to stay informed and engaged without feeling like you’re drowning in a sea of headlines.

One simple way to stay updated on the news is to set aside a specific time each day to catch up on current events. Whether it’s first thing in the morning with your morning coffee or during your lunch break, having a designated time to read the news can help you stay informed without feeling like you’re constantly playing catch-up.

Another way to stay informed is to diversify your news sources. Instead of relying on just one news outlet for all your information, try to get your news from a variety of sources. This will give you a more well-rounded view of the world and help you avoid falling into the trap of only hearing one side of the story.

Additionally, don’t be afraid to take breaks from the news when you need to. It’s important to stay informed, but it’s also important to take care of your mental health. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed by the constant barrage of news, don’t be afraid to step away and take a break. Your well-being is more important than staying up-to-date on every headline.

Lastly, remember that it’s okay to not know everything. With so much information out there, it’s impossible to be an expert on every topic. Instead of trying to know it all, focus on staying informed about the things that matter most to you. Whether it’s politics, health, or entertainment, prioritize the news that impacts your life the most.

In conclusion, staying informed in today’s world doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By setting aside time each day to read the news, diversifying your news sources, taking breaks when needed, and focusing on the topics that matter most to you, you can stay informed without feeling like you’re drowning in a sea of headlines. Remember, it’s okay to not know everything, but it’s important to stay engaged and informed about the world around you.