We’re Not Just Teaching Technology.
We’re Creating Pathways.
QUED-UP (Quality, Education, & Design, United for Progress) is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering students — especially those in underserved communities — through creative technology education and career-ready training.
From 2D animation and game design to virtual reality and certification programs, we prepare young people for the future of work — while helping them discover the power of their creativity.
We believe talent is everywhere. Opportunity should be too.
we're making a difference
We’re making a difference by equipping students with the tools, technology, and training they need to thrive in a digital world—no matter their background.
Creative Tech Education
We bring 2D/3D animation, game design, and VR development directly into classrooms, community centers, and after-school spaces. Students learn from industry-experienced instructors using real-world tools.
Career Certification Training
For students ages 16–30, we offer access to professional certifications in high-demand fields like IT Support, Cybersecurity, and Data Analytics — all designed to lead to job readiness and long-term success.
On-Demand Learning
Our digital platform, QUED Academy, gives students nationwide the chance to take classes in animation, game dev, and technology — regardless of their location or background.
Hardware Donation Program
Access to education starts with access to equipment. Through our Hardware Donation Program, we receive laptops and desktops from sponsors, community partners, and local organizations. Many arrive without hard drives or chargers — but we outfit each one with everything a student needs: storage, power supplies, and essential software.
We donate these devices to students both in our programs and in the wider community, ensuring that lack of technology is never a barrier to growth.
Corporate & Community Partnerships
From VR experiences to animation training for staff or students, we collaborate with companies, schools, and nonprofits to expand our reach and impact — bringing QUED-UP programming to new audiences and environments.
Why It Matters
Creative technology is shaping the future — and we’re making sure our students have a place in it. For too long, access to these skills and tools has been limited by income, geography, or exposure.
QUED-UP exists to level the playing field by giving students the training, mentorship, and tech access they need to thrive — not just as users of technology, but as creators of it.
Our Vision
To build a future where every young person — no matter their background — has access to the tools, training, and technology needed to thrive in the creative and digital economy. We envision a world where students from underserved communities become animators, game designers, coders, engineers, and innovators — not by chance, but by design. Through equitable access to STEAM education, mentorship, and career pathways, QUED-UP is helping shape a generation of creators who don’t just consume technology — they shape it.
- Make Positive Impact
- Empower Communities
- Helping Others
Want to Help?
Whether you’re a donor, a tech partner, or an educator, there’s a place for you in the QUED-UP movement.
Support Our Mission
Become a Hardware Partner
Led by Creators. Driven by Purpose. Inspired by the Future.
Meet the Team
At QUED-UP, our team is made up of educators, artists, developers, and dreamers — all united by a shared mission: to open doors for the next generation of creators in underserved communities.
We are passionate professionals with real-world experience in animation, game development, virtual reality, and technology education. Many of us have walked the same paths as the students we now serve — and we’re committed to reaching back and lifting others up. Whether in the classroom, behind a screen, or building new partnerships, our team leads with empathy, expertise, and a deep belief in what’s possible.
Quittman Farmer
Founder
Quittman Farmer is the founder of QUED-UP and a visionary creative technologist, dedicated to using animation, VR, and education to open doors for students in underserved communities.
Kyle Rickards
Director of Operations
Kyle Rickards serves as the Director of Operations at QUED-UP, where he oversees program execution, partnerships, and day-to-day logistics to ensure every student experience is impactful and seamless.
Shamika Brown
Member
Shamika Brown, holding a master’s degree in early childhood education with a specialization in Administrative Management and Leadership, has dedicated several years to the field of early childhood education. Her exceptional contributions have been recognized through her inclusion in the Book of Who’s Who and winning the NAEYC Spotlight award.
Contact Us
Contact us for a quote, help, or to join the team.
1363 Shermer RD
Northbrook, IL 60062 STE. 206
Email:
info@qued-up.org
Phone:
+ 1 872.212.0477