#138 Cassandra Chin's Journey From Child Coder to International Tech Educator

Meet Cassandra Chin, a remarkable young woman who began teaching tech workshops internationally at just 13 years old. Now 22, she's authored "Raising Young Coders," speaks at global tech conferences, and champions inclusivity in the technology field with wisdom beyond her years.

Cassandra shares her unconventional journey into tech, debunking the myth that coding requires strong math skills. "Programming is more about logic and creativity," she explains, offering a refreshing perspective that could open doors for creative minds hesitant to explore coding. Her approach focuses on making technology fun and accessible rather than intimidating—a philosophy that shines through in her book's projects like "Squishy Circuits," where children create art with conductive Play-Doh and LEDs.

What stands out most is Cassandra's approach to navigating male-dominated tech spaces. When asked how she maintains confidence at conferences where women are underrepresented, her strategy is brilliantly simple: "I start by introducing myself and telling them my biggest accomplishment, and then after that we're equals." This straightforward method of establishing credibility offers valuable wisdom for women of all ages. Cassandra's parting advice for parents? "Give your kids an opportunity to try technology without biases. Just let them experience it and decide if they like it." For anyone interested in making technology more inclusive—especially for young girls—this conversation provides both inspiration and practical strategies to break down barriers in tech education.

Listen now to hear Cassandra's full story, and use her special discount code for 20% off her book "Raising Young Coders." Have you been approaching technology with unconscious biases? This episode might change how you think about coding education forever.

Springer: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/979-8-8688-1393-1
Springer Discount Code: APAUT

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Raising-Young-Coders-Teaching-Programming/dp/B0DVBQZ483/

Cassandra Chin | LinkedIn, X

Latest Book: Raising Young Coders: A Parent’s Guide to Teaching Programming at Home

Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction to Cassandra Chin
• 1:53 Teaching Tech Workshops at 13
• 4:27 Love for Technology Without Math
• 5:33 Raising Young Coders Book
• 7:17 International Workshops and Parent Feedback
• 9:57 Women in Tech and Confidence
• 13:15 Future Plans and Closing Thoughts