Codeup, a tech school that's been an integral part of San Antonio's tech scene since 2013, has come to a grinding halt. The school, which transformed novices into web developers, succumbed to financial strains, indicating hiring freezes and funding issues were to blame for their downfall.
Released yesterday, a statement on their now-inoperative website detailed the company's plight. "Codeup was built to fill a gap in San Antonio’s tech community, and countless people – including staff, teachers and employer partners – enabled its success," as unearthed by KSAT. Established by Michael Girdley, Chris Turner, and Jason Straughan, it sought to plug a growing demand for tech talent. The statement further lamented the impact of the job market's chill and a shift in the funding landscape, which was especially noted in 2023.
Over its decade-long run, despite the hiring freeze that gnawed at its foundations, Codeup boasted over 2,000 graduates, infusing the local market with $61 million in tech salaries. These numbers stood as a testament to the role the institution played in powering the tech workforce.
In an unexpected twist in early December, Codeup's CEO Jason Straughan announced stepping down from his role, leaving many questioning the future of the school. This was closely followed by the abrupt dismissals of Codeup staff on December 28, when they were notified of their termination "effective immediately" and saw all classes for the remaining cohorts nullified. "We have always believed in our students and Codeup’s mission, so we are heartbroken by having to close a program that has provided a pathway to success for so many," Codeup’s team relayed through the website statement. The resource deficit in December left the company in a position where carrying on was no longer viable.
