Code Ninjas is the world’s largest kids’ coding franchise, teaching children ages 5 to 14 vital STEM and problem-solving skills through a game-based curriculum where they build their own video games. Pulse 2.0 interviewed Code Ninja VP of Education & Training Ed Kim to learn more.
Ed Kim’s Background
Could you tell me more about your background? Kim said:
“Ed Kim, VP Education & Training at Code Ninjas. I’ve worked in the afterschool education space since 2009, with experiences in managing curriculum and operator/instructor training for programs in standardized test prep, GPA management, college admissions, creative writing, and STEM-adjacent topics like computer science. I joined Code Ninjas in 2023 and my time has been focused on greatly expanding program breadth and depth, and creating more rigorous and successful training programs for both our teachers and center operators.”
Formation Of The Company
How did the idea for Code Ninjas come together? Kim shared:
“At Code Ninjas, we believe the world becomes better when children learn to write code. While not every student will grow up to be a programmer, the skills they gain—like computational thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and leadership—will empower them for a lifetime.”
“By learning to code, kids develop the skills to adapt to new technologies, persevere through challenges, and create innovative solutions to real-world problems. This empowers them to tackle the complex challenges of the future and create a better world for all.”
“We learned that by combining the familiar medium of games and game development with the challenging subject that is coding, we can foster and empower the next generation of innovators and creators.”
Favorite Memory
What has been your favorite memory working for Code Ninjas so far? Kim reflected:
“It has been every time I visit a center to observe the Senseis and Ninjas working together. There is always some interaction that highlights the kid’s passion, wonder, or success. The first time I visited a center when I joined the company, I saw a young student yell at her parent (in the funniest manner) that she needed 10 more minutes to finish her code and for her mother to drive the car around until she was done. The mother couldn’t help but laugh and she shared with me that Code Ninjas was the “safe space for her daughter to nerd out”, so it was wonderful to see.”
Core Products
What are the company’s core products and features? Kim explained:
“Code Ninjas provides two lines of programs – rigorous, belt-based programs to learn how to code traditionally such as with Javascript and C#, and engaged, fun-focused programs to learn coding-adjacent STEM topics such as AI, robotics, web development, etc. One of our most popular summer camps over the last two years has been AI Coding & Machine Learning. Overall, we offer programs that run year-round, clubs for the fall and spring, camps for school breaks and summer/winter breaks, and more.”
“For our programs focused on traditional languages like Javascript and C#, we provide both proprietary and partnered platforms that have built-in assessments, learning goals, and activity objectives weaved into a game development structure that promotes student learning and progress. For our programs focused on adjacent topics like AI and robotics, we provide enrichment and learning through a variety of mediums whether online or unplugged.”
“Code Ninjas curriculum is developed with creation in mind because it allows our students to express their imagination, experiment with new ideas, and have a sense of ownership and control over their creations — not to mention, creativity is the ultimate medium for self-expression, exploration, and discovery, which are essential to our students cognitive, social, and emotional development.”
“In Code Ninjas’ Dojos, kids don’t just learn coding – they gain creativity, problem-solving, critical thinking, and STEM skills in a fun, safe, and inspiring environment.”
Challenges Faced
Have you faced any challenges in your sector of work recently? Kim acknowledged:
“Artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere. It powers smart speakers that somehow know your favorite song and apps that make writing that difficult message easier. AI is fun and new and exciting… but it also makes us wonder if AI will take over coding jobs?”
“The short answer is no. AI may change how coding looks, but programmers are still very much needed. For parents, that means coding remains one of the most valuable future-ready skills they can invest in today. The beauty of learning how to code is that the subject combines the necessary mindset of engineering with the rigors of applying logic and computational thinking. While traditional subjects like math focus on a particular system, coding combines multiple subjects to create outcomes.”
“For example, debugging is one of the trickiest parts of coding. It means figuring out why a program isn’t working and fixing it. AI might suggest solutions, but it can’t fully understand the unique goals of your project. Programmers still need to test and ensure the final product works. AI doesn’t replace coders. Instead, it gives them a starting point and frees them to focus on higher-level problem solving and creativity.”
“At Code Ninjas’ new AI Academy, kids learn how to use AI to debug, refine and expand their code. They explore how AI can explain confusing snippets, suggest improvements and generate new features. Ninjas are still in charge, guiding the process.”
“By practicing coding this way, AI becomes a partner in learning, not a shortcut.”
Evolution Of The Company’s Technology
How has Code Ninjas’ technology evolved since launching? Kim noted:
“Since 2017-2018, we’ve come a long with the technologies we use for our students. We’ve built proprietary learning platforms that are aligned with computer science standards in lockstep. Our platforms have evolved to better engage students, provide parents with more information, and help our Sensei teach more effectively. Our focus on digital citizenship has grown significantly, ensuring that our Ninjas mature online constructively. Our ecosystem of partners like LEGO Education, CodeCombat, and Codio allow us to offer the latest features and experiences to our Ninjas. Internally, we’ve continued to adjust for the rise of AI, and are constantly seeking new opportunities to offer our Ninjas with better and better programs.”
Significant Milestones
What have been some of Code Ninjas’ most significant milestones? Kim cited:
“Code Ninjas is the world’s largest and fastest-growing kids’ coding franchise, with hundreds of locations in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.”
“We’ve recently graduated our 650th ‘Black Belt’ Ninja, students who have moved through our curriculum, mastering block coding, Javascript, and C#. These students create full 3D games from start to finish, and must pass the review board managed by the corporated Education team. Graduating as a ‘Black Belt’ Ninja is a significant, multi-year achievement.”
Differentiation From The Competition
What differentiates Code Ninjas from its competition? Kim affirmed:
“Without a doubt, we offer the benefits of being the largest brick-and-mortar afterschool coding education provider. Our curriculum is the best-in-class and is aligned with the CSTA and ISTE standards, so educators and parents can feel confident about our academic rigor. Our programs offer the most fun and engaging programs while also teaching challenging subjects, so students learn naturally, not forcefully or through rote memorization. Our education team is comprised of a comprehensive variety of experiences ranging from standards writers to engineers to PhD candidates to private equity executives. Our ecosystem of partners is wide and deep – we work with LEGO Education, Minecraft Education, Unity, Code Combat, and many other partners to build Code Ninjas custom content. Our presence is vast and growing – we have over 350 centers in the US, Canada, and UK, and new global opportunities are in the process.”
“Simply put, we’re the best.”
Future Company Goals
What are some of the company’s future goals? Kim concluded with this quote:
“‘Empowering young minds with computational thinking is like giving them a key to unlock limitless possibilities. Through coding, problem-solving, and creativity, children develop the superpower to shape the future and become the architects of innovation,’ said Navin Gurnaney, CEO of Code Ninjas.”
