Unique program from IC Stars and New Moms nonprofit, sponsored by Pfizer, helps moms start careers in tech [Video]

CHICAGO (WLS) — Tech company I.C. Stars and non-profit New Moms have partnered for a unique program to give mothers a chance to create a career in information technology.

The I.C. Stars Hackathon is part of their Tech Pathways program, and gave 12 moms the chance to learn about career advancement in technology. It’s sponsored by Pfizer, who are looking for solutions around Black maternal mental health.

“It’s like an advocate for us in a way,” said Katlyn Vargas, one of the 12 participating moms. “Wearable technology, they’re look at apps. They’re looking at different platforms. They’re look at all of the fail points in the system.”

Normally the I.C. Stars program involves 60-hour weeks over four months. But CEO Karin Norington-Reaves said they partnered with New Moms to create a unique program for women whose time is more in demand.

“We knew they couldn’t deal with the intensity of the traditional program …