Learn about local tech opportunities
The Idea for the TechFest initiative started with a conversation between the mayor's office in Fort Wayne and Atos Origin, the city's IT provider. The conversation generated interest in a program in Cincinnati which was piloted by Atos Origin to address their region's "Brain Drain" issue. Five years later, a vibrant and interactive program exists for their area high school students.
Fort Wayne felt that the time was right to create a similar initiative here. The Graduate Retention Program at the Greater Fort Wayne Chamber of Commerce seemed like a natural fit to lead the initiative and the program is now under way thanks to that beginning vision.
TechFest
TechFest is an opportunity for all Northeast Indiana high school students to engage in a full day of video game tournaments, problem-solving team competitions, a computer-based virtual music creation contest, photo-editing contest, workshops about careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in Northeast Indiana, and much more. Local universities and colleges will also be on hand to provide information about majors related to these subject areas.
Participation is $10 and students may choose two events to participate in. Prizes will be awarded to the winning individual or team in each game and raffle prizes will be given away at random throughout the day. Non-participating guests are welcome to purchase tickets at the door for $5.
Northeast Indiana Internships
Beginning in the summer of 2011, area high school students who have completed their junior or senior years will be able to apply for internships with Northeast Indiana companies specializing in STEM related careers. These internships will be paid and will require students to complete 240 hours throughout the summer.
Internship opportunities will be posted on www.indianaintern.net. Students may register and apply for other internship opportunities posted on the site as well.
Summer Tech Camps
Beginning in the summer of 2012, Technology based camps will be offered to local Sophomore and Junior level students with an interest in STEM related subjects. These camps will last one week and take place at area Universities and Colleges in Northeast Indiana.
The camps will allow high school students to work in teams with other area students utilizing problem-solving and critical thinking skills to create a solution for real-world problems. Students will also visit area companies to learn about careers and work with engineers on projects.