The Forge event

A BEYOND CODE COLLECTIVE INITIATIVE

The Forge

WHERE INNOVATION
MEETS COMMUNITY

The Forge is a network of intergenerational, site-specific hubs that blend technology education, community engagement, and workforce development under one roof. A true “third place” that is neither school nor work, where middle schoolers sit alongside mid-career professionals, and families with their kids, as they explore AI and emerging technology together.

THE FORGE: ATL

FIRST RESIDENCY
ATLANTA, GEORGIA

The Forge: ATL is hosted within North Star AI Labs at Georgia Tech’s Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC). Free programming is offered two days a week, running from March 2026 through August 2026.

Community members taking a selfie at The Forge

Two days a week, free programming

March 2026 – August 2026

PROGRAMMING

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE FORGE

Lunch & Learn

Open, one-time sessions on topics like AI, data literacy, and digital tools. No commitment required — just show up, learn, and connect.

One-time eventAges 18+Free

Cohort Programs

Multi-week structured courses like AI Fundamentals. Limited seats, deeper learning, hands-on projects, and a dedicated instructor-led experience.

4-week cohortApplication requiredFree

Family Programming

Caregivers and kids build real tech projects side by side. It's hands-on learning designed for the whole family — no experience required, just curiosity.

Drop-in sessionsAll agesFree

High Schoolers

Dedicated spaces where teens come to learn, build, and find their people. Whether it's a first project or a fifth, high schoolers leave with real skills and real connections.

Weekly sessionsAges 14–18Free

No preparation needed — you don’t need to bring a computer. Just come with an open mind and ready to learn.

HOW IT WORKS

FROM DISCOVERY TO PARTICIPATION

01

Browse the Calendar

View upcoming Lunch & Learns and cohort programs on our Eventbrite calendar.

02

Be Sure to RSVP

Register for free through Eventbrite. Cohort programs have limited seats — sign up early.

03

Show Up & Learn

Show up in person at The Forge. No prep needed, just bring yourself and an open mind.

At Beyond Code, we believe that everyone should have a role in shaping tomorrow’s technology. The Forge allows us to not only give people access to tools, but the community support and space to explore these tools, so they are empowered to confidently shape the future of technology and work.

Cristina ManciniFounder & CEO, Beyond Code Collective

THE MODEL

BUILT FOR
EVERYONE

Intergenerational

Middle schoolers alongside mid-career professionals and families. Every generation learns together.

Culturally Responsive

Designed in collaboration with local stakeholders. Programming shaped by and for the community it serves.

AI & Emerging Tech

Expanding opportunity in AI, data literacy, automation, and the technologies defining the future of work.

Free & Accessible

Free programming offered on a regular schedule. No barriers to entry, no prerequisites required.

The Forge panel discussion on stage
Community member with Beyond Code Collective water bottle
Panelist speaking at The Forge opening
Attendees networking at Georgia Tech ATDC
Community members laughing at The Forge
One-on-one conversation at The Forge
Community members in conversation at The Forge lounge
Beyond Code Collective branded notebooks
Rep Kim at The Forge step and repeat
Catering spread at The Forge opening event
Four attendees at The Forge step and repeat
Panelists in conversation on stage at The Forge
Rep Kim speaking at The Forge
The Forge team group photo at step and repeat
Panelist laughing during The Forge discussion
Director chairs with The Future of Tech Starts Here pillows
Beyond Code Collective check-in at Georgia Tech ATDC

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE FORGE

No preparation needed — you don’t need to bring a computer. Just come with an open mind and ready to learn.

BROWSE UPCOMING EVENTS

GET INVOLVED

JOIN THE
THE FORGE

Interested in attending The Forge: ATL, volunteering, or partnering? Sign up and we’ll keep you in the loop.