In a significant move to promote the importance of computer science education, the Columbus City Council passed a resolution on December 9, 2024, officially designating December 9-15, 2024 as Computer Science Education Week in Columbus, Ohio. This recognition highlights the city’s commitment to fostering technological skills and innovation among its youth.
During the council meeting, Lisa M. Chambers, CEO of TECH CORPS, shared insights into the organization’s impactful initiatives. TECH CORPS has been at the forefront of empowering students through technology education, and the recent 6th Annual TECH CORPS hackathon is a testament to their efforts.
Many of the hackathon students attended the event, and two students shared insights about the apps they developed. Saniyah Sykes, an Eastmoor Academy student, and her team developed an app to address hunger issues in Columbus. David Rivera, a Columbus Alternative High School student, and his team developed an app to address the needs of individuals with food and dietary restrictions.
The TECH CORPS hackathon, a highly anticipated statewide competition, took place in five cities: Akron, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Elyria. This event gave students invaluable skills, boosting their confidence and enhancing their readiness for college, careers, and beyond. The competition offered hands-on experience in mobile app development and fostered a spirit of innovation and collaboration among the participants.
The success of TECH CORPS hackathon would not have been possible without the support of the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, Columbus City Council, the Nordson Corporation Foundation, Progressive, AT&T, and Sci-Tech. The event was powered by Swift User Interface and further fueled by contributions from WillowTree Apps, CoverMyMeds, and NEO Opportunities in Tech.
By recognizing Computer Science Education Week and supporting initiatives like the TECH CORPS hackathon, Columbus City Council ensures that the next generation is equipped with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. This commitment to education and innovation is vital for the continued growth and prosperity of Columbus and the state of Ohio.