The program offers an early pipeline into the AI, semiconductor, and IoT workforce through potential yearlong innovation and research tracks with Virginia Tech faculty.
The Virginia Tech UPWARDS TechTrek High School Program is a two-week immersive program for rising 10th-12th grade students. Participants engage in hands-on modules exploring modern computing hardware and intelligent systems. Key activities include artificial intelligence and machine learning, Python programming, and working with Internet of Things platforms like micro:bit, Arduino, and Raspberry Pi. Students also delve into electronic circuit design, digital design, and FPGA-based hardware description languages, alongside robotics and drone technology. The program aims to expose students to both traditional and emerging STEM fields, inspiring future engineering careers. Top participants may be invited to continue into a yearlong innovation and research track, pairing them with Virginia Tech faculty and students on active research projects, building an early pipeline into the AI, semiconductor, and IoT workforce.
A typical day involves hands-on modules and activities covering topics like AI, machine learning, Python programming, IoT platforms, circuit design, and robotics. Students also take field trips to leading technology and manufacturing employers.
This program is ideal for rising 10th-12th grade students across Northern Virginia interested in electrical, computer, materials science, or chemical engineering, or a related field, with a keen interest in modern computing hardware, intelligent systems, and emerging STEM fields.
Potomac Yard campus, 3625 Potomac Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22305
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