#68:How Disrupting Computer Science Education Makes Better Software Engineers: Prah Veluvolu & Mimir

With the year coming to a close and the holiday season in full swing, we at Powderkeg wanted to give you something special in this episode of the Igniting Startups podcast. For any listeners who’ve never had the pleasure of attending one of our pitch nights, we thought it would be fun to give you a sense of what it’s like to be there in person. And we picked a very timely pitch to share: how disrupting computer science education can help fill the tech talent shortage, especially the demand for software engineers. You’re probably familiar with the massive tech talent shortage that’s currently making it tough for companies to hire and retain skilled tech workers. Our recent EdTech + Talent Pitch Night touched on this issue, featuring one founder whose company helps universities scale their computer science education. Or put more bluntly, he helps schools graduate more software engineers in less time—all while improving their grades. That founder is Prahasith Veluvolu (“Prah” to his friends), CEO of Mimir. His edtech startup doesn’t stop at helping colleges such as UCLA and Michigan State improve their computer science education programs, either. It also connects their graduates with high-growth companies looking for software engineers and developers. In addition to Prah’s pitch, you’ll hear insightful questions and feedback from four tech professionals who served as our panel of advisors. Not only will you get to experience the energy and excitement that characterizes every Powderkeg Pitch Night, but you’ll also come away with a better understanding of how startups like Mimir can help you hire your own skilled tech talent. In this episode with Prahasith Veluvolu of Mimir, you’ll learn: --- What Mimir is doing to facilitate better tech education. --- How Mimir helps companies find the skilled tech talent they need. --- Insights from our panel of experienced tech professionals. If you like this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes. You can also follow us on Soundcloud or Stitcher. We have an incredible lineup of interviews we’ll be releasing every Tuesday here on the Powderkeg Podcast. Check it out at powderkeg.com/itunes.