Nick Winter
About Nick Winter
Nick Winter is the CEO and Co-Founder of CodeCombat, where he focuses on game-based learning to enhance computer science education. He previously served as CTO and Co-Founder of Inkren (Skritter.com) and has authored a book on motivation hacking.
Work at CodeCombat
Nick Winter serves as the CEO and Co-Founder of CodeCombat, a platform dedicated to enhancing computer science education through game-based learning. Since 2013, he has overseen both the game and business operations, contributing to the platform's growth into a significant movement in the field. His leadership focuses on making programming more accessible and engaging for learners, utilizing the interactive nature of games to facilitate education.
Experience at Inkren (Skritter.com)
Nick Winter co-founded Inkren, known for Skritter.com, where he held the position of CTO from 2008 to 2013. During his five years in this role, he played a crucial part in developing the platform, which specializes in teaching users how to write Chinese characters. Since 2013, he has continued to contribute to Inkren as a Board Member, bringing his expertise in software development and education.
Education and Expertise
Nick Winter earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Oberlin College, where he studied Computer Science, Mathematics, and East Asian Studies (Chinese) from 2004 to 2008. In 2014, he participated in Y Combinator, a startup accelerator, further enhancing his entrepreneurial skills. His academic background supports his work in software development and education, particularly in the context of programming and language learning.
Authorship and Contributions
In addition to his roles in technology and education, Nick Winter authored a book focused on motivation hacking. This work reflects his interest in understanding and enhancing the motivational aspects of learning and personal development. His insights contribute to his approach in both CodeCombat and Inkren, where he emphasizes the importance of engaging users in their learning processes.
Philosophy on Programming and Education
Nick Winter believes in the power of programming as a creative tool, comparing it to wizardry. This perspective informs his approach to education, where he advocates for game-based learning as a means to make programming more accessible. His unique philosophy drives the initiatives at CodeCombat, aiming to inspire learners to view programming as a creative and enjoyable endeavor.