The City of Natchez has taken significant steps to enhance local technology education and workforce development by supporting the establishment of a Mississippi Coding Academies (MCA) campus. In November 2024, Mayor Dan Gibson presented a $75,000 check, funded through a Delta Regional Authority grant, to MCA’s Executive Director, Robert “Bob” Buseck Jr. This funding facilitates the launch of the Natchez-based coding academy, which began classes on January 6, 2025, at the Alcorn State University Business Center.
The Natchez MCA campus offers a free six-month course, running Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., providing hands-on instruction in various technology-based careers, including software creation, mobile applications, web development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide in Mississippi by equipping residents with valuable tech skills, thereby fostering economic growth and creating new opportunities within the community.
Robert “Bob” Buseck Jr., a Natchez native and Executive Director of MCA, emphasized the organization’s focus on serving underserved populations in Mississippi by bringing emerging technologies and education to areas where they are scarce. Since its inception in 2017, MCA has graduated over 300 individuals, with many securing local positions with starting salaries ranging from $40,000 to $80,000. The Natchez campus is MCA’s fifth location, joining others in Jackson, Biloxi, Columbus, and Clarksdale.
Mayor Gibson expressed gratitude for Buseck’s leadership and the city’s workforce development team for their efforts in securing the funding. He highlighted the historical significance of this initiative in advancing workforce development in Natchez.
Applications for the Natchez MCA program are open to individuals aged 18 and older, with no application deadline, as the academy accepts applicants year-round. For more information or to apply, visit https://www.mscoding.org.
This development underscores Natchez’s commitment to empowering its residents through innovative learning opportunities and bridging the digital divide in Mississippi.
Leave a Reply