👨🏽‍💻 Rewriting The Code: From Self Taught Coder to CEO Empowering The Next Generation

🎙️ Rewriting The Code: From Self-Taught Coder to CEOMikeal Vaughn’s journey is a powerful reminder that sometimes the most unconventional paths lead to the greatest impact. Born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Mikeal’s curiosity and willingness to take risks led him across the world to Tokyo, Japan. There, he built a thriving career, sharpening the self-taught coding skills that would later transform his life. But despite his success abroad, Mikeal felt a deep pull to return home — to give back and create opportunities for the next generation.That calling became Urban Coders Guild, the nonprofit he founded to equip young people, particularly those from underserved and overlooked communities, with the tools to succeed in the digital age. Through hands-on coding education, mentorship, and real-world exposure, Mikeal is opening doors that many young people never thought possible. His work is not only about teaching code — it’s about building confidence, nurturing creativity, and showing students that they have the power to design their own future.In this episode, Mikeal shares his extraordinary story of becoming a self-taught coder turned CEO, the lessons he learned from living and working in Japan, and his mission to create equity in tech. We’ll explore how his organization is reshaping lives in Tulsa and beyond, inspiring a new wave of coders who will not just adapt to the future — but define it.upskilledu.netMikeal Vaughn  He/Him  1st degree connection1stFounder and Executive Director of Urban Coders Guild | 2023 Aspen Tech Policy Hub Fellow | STEM/STEAM Education Advocatelinkedin.com/in/mikealvaughn