Connecting Tech Students at All Levels
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Across Central Virginia, there is growing momentum to build inclusive, community-rooted pathways for girls and women in technology.
We Tech amplifies this momentum by expanding opportunities, strengthening connections, and adding new value to the region’s STEM ecosystem—especially during the pivotal middle school years and the transitions between programs. The We Tech program aims to expand and strengthen that pipeline by addressing a key gap: middle school engagement. Charlottesville Women in Tech (CWIT) and Tech-Girls already offer a rich suite of programs that support girls and women in STEM:
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Introducing We Tech!
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The We Tech initiative bridges gaps between these programs, specifically in the middle school years and builds ongoing mentorship between women in technology and aspiring young women to create a more seamless, supported pathway for girls and women in tech.
The initiative will introduce innovative programs and community experiences through the We Tech Summit and mentor programs, which will bring together intergenerational learners for a Women in Tech Career Forum and Girls Tech Challenge. These signature events, paired with year-round mentorship and educator development, enhance the existing ecosystem and extend its reach. Through community events, mentorship, and educator engagement, this initiative will create more equitable access to high-quality, tech-forward learning experiences. By leveraging the strengths of local organizations, university partnerships, and a shared commitment to equity in STEM, We Tech will foster lasting pathways that support the next generation of diverse tech leaders. |
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Program Activities
- Tech-Girls Student Advisory Board: A leadership team of high school students representing schools throughout the region will serve as the Tech-Girls Advisory Board. This board will lead planning and recruitment for Girls’ Geek Day and We Tech events, providing youth-driven insight into program design while building leadership, organizational, and public speaking skills among student members.
- Yes We Tech-Girls Program: a high school student-led team (Tech-Girls Advisory Board), will develop and facilitate a series of creative and inspiring technology programs for girls in middle schools across the region. These programs will be developed and led by high school student tech-aspiring leaders and will be crafted to help girls develop their own tech identity by sparking interest, building confidence, and nurturing an inclusive community.
- We Tech Summit: This signature annual event includes a Women in Tech Career Forum with tracks tailored for women and girls at various life and career stages:
- those choosing careers (students),
- transitioning into tech,
- re-entering the workforce, or
- working in non-tech careers seeking to strengthen their tech skills.
The summit culminates in a community celebration where middle school and high school participants share their creative projects and growing tech passions with peers, mentors, and local professionals, featuring teams formed during the middle school workshops.
Have questions, or wondering if your school or student can participate?
