Over the summer we celebrated the third graduating class of the Apple Developer Academy, which saw 200 Detroiters complete a free, 10-month curriculum focused on coding, app development, design, AI frameworks, project management and more. The Apple Developer Academy is a partnership between the Gilbert Family Foundation, Michigan State University and Apple to empower a diverse range of students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue high-demand jobs in the tech sector. This initiative “ties threads” between creating access to opportunity for Detroiters, while also supporting Detroit’s burgeoning tech ecosystem.

A core focus of the Rocket Community Fund is workforce development in Detroit, which aligns with our dedication to building opportunity through programs like the Apple Developer Academy. Maverick Brazill graduated from the Apple Developer Academy in 2023, and was one of the 25% of graduates accepted into the Renaissance Program, a project-based continuation of the ADA program intended to give participants real-world experience designing an app. Brazill was hired on as a summer intern at Rocket Companies, supporting the Rocket Mortgage tech team.

In this video, Maverick Brazil shares his experience, reflecting on how the Academy’s innovative environment and mentorship gave him the skills and foundation needed to excel in his role supporting the Mac Systems and Engineering team. Brazill’s experience as an ADA student and Rocket intern also paved the way for another internship opportunity supporting iOS development at Rocket Homes. Brazill’s transformative experience has opened new doors for his career, and we are proud to have played a role in his journey. We are excited to continue supporting Detroit talent and nurture the next generation of tech innovators!