> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.opentechacademy.org/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Mission and Values of Open Tech Academy

> How Open Tech Academy keeps tech education free: student-led leadership, radical accessibility, open-source tools, and direct-impact 501(c)(3) governance.

**Open Tech Academy** is founded on the belief that access to technology education is a fundamental driver of opportunities. We design resources, courses, and software toolkits to empower learners around the globe, with a focus on absolute beginners.

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## Our Mission

> We reduce barriers to technology education by publishing free, high-quality courses and resources that anyone can start using immediately—no expensive licenses, no gatekeeping.

We achieve this mission through:

* **Free self-paced courses** in our online Learning Center.
* **In-person build workshops** where participants learn computer engineering and keep their PCs.
* **Local browser utilities** to make common digital tasks easier and privacy-respecting.

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## Core Values

### 1. Student-Led Leadership

Open Tech Academy is built and operated by student leaders, builders, and developers. This structure provides invaluable hands-on experience in software engineering, project management, and nonprofit governance.

### 2. Radical Accessibility

All of our content is available without sign-up blocks. You only need a free account in the Learning Center if you wish to track your progress and earn certificates. We never include ads, paywalls, or upsells.

### 3. Build in the Open

We open-source our tools and website platforms. Our codebases are designed to be remix-friendly, encouraging other schools and community groups to adapt and reuse our materials.

### 4. Direct Impact

We ensure that every dollar raised goes directly towards supporting educational resources, server infrastructure, and workshop equipment.