100 Franklin County High School Students Invest Time After School Building Their Technology Skills - TECH CORPS

Franklin County 9th and 10th graders will have the opportunity to learn about 3D Printing, Coding, Robotics and technology careers. Thanks to the support of the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, TECH CORPS will provide 15-weeks of technology instruction to 100 TANF-eligible students. The program that runs after school, one day a week from February through May will be held at three locations—Horizon Science Academy High School, Franklin Heights High School, and the TECH CORPS office (6600 Busch Boulevard, Suite 210, Columbus, OH 43229).

Students will learn how 21st Century workforce skills such as problem-solving, creativity and curiosity can lead to viable career paths within the field of technology and how those careers can be leveraged to achieve personal goals.

Keariyea Edwards, a Horizon Science Academy 11th grader, participated in Computing Career Corps in 2022. “Computing Career Corps helped me develop problem-solving and coding skills while giving me a solid foundation in computer science,” Edwards said. “The best part of the TECH CORPS program was meeting like-minded students and learning from instructors who are passionate about technology.”

“We believe all students should have access to high-quality technology learning experiences,” said Lisa M. Chambers, TECH CORPS’ National Executive Director. “In communities where access and exposure to technology education and careers is limited, we are forging collaborative partnerships, like the one with the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, to help bring these skills and experiences to students.”

In 2023, the Franklin County Board of Commissioners is making historic investments in workforce development programs. Through its $496,000 grant to TECH CORPS, 100 Franklin County high school students will develop their computer science skills, complete a variety of workforce preparedness activities as well as interact with technology professionals in a variety of roles and from companies located in Franklin County.

“We continue to partner with TECH CORPS over the years because they view this work and these programs through an equity lens,” said Board of Commissioners President, John O’Grady. “Through this partnership, we’re able to equip these young people with the tools to compete in the technology economy. They’re graduating better prepared for college or ready to go straight into good-paying, in-demand career fields.”

Providing technology education to Franklin County youth helps to strengthen the workforce. Commissioner Erica C. Crawley is a champion for the Computing Career Corps program and believes it will ensure more Franklin County neighbors and their families will thrive. She explained, “I am supportive of the work TECH CORPS does every day to ensure that our youth have access to tech and STEAM education. TECH CORPS is committed to helping elevate learning and connecting with our future leaders by incorporating diversity, problem-solving, responsibility, and workforce readiness. TECH CORPS continues to provide our youth with the freedom to express their creativity while learning skills that will stay with them throughout their entire lives.”

 TECH CORPS is now accepting applications for its 2023 Computing Career Corps program. This year’s program will start in February and includes guided activities with peers and individual work time. Eligible students will meet one evening a week for 15 weeks and learn about coding, hardware and some of the exciting tech jobs available in their community. Students who successfully complete the program will earn $400 or a new laptop and are eligible to transition into TECH CORPS’ IT On Ramp+ summer learn and earn program.

To learn more about Computing Career Corps and begin the application process, visit bit.ly/2023tcccc.