<![CDATA[America On Tech | Creating Pathways to Technology

<![CDATA[America On Tech | Creating Pathways to Technology - News]]>Sun, 13 Sep 2026 21:20:40 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[A Summer of Celebrations: Future Innovators Night Event Series]]>Thu, 27 Aug 2026 10:10:45 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/a-summer-of-celebrations-future-innovators-night-event-series

This summer, America On Tech (AOT) brought Future Innovators Night to Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, and New York City, closing out a summer of student innovation, industry connection, and conversations about the Future of Work.

At each stop, students took the stage to demo AI chatbots they built this summer, industry executives sat down for candid conversations about how technology is reshaping the workplace and skills the next generation will need to thrive. AOT alumni, some just months removed from the program, others years into their careers, stood up to show what's possible when technical training is paired with professional networks, mentorship and access to opportunity.

Across four cities, one message was clear: preparing the future workforce takes all of us.
Here's a look at how each city showed up.

Los Angeles: The London West Hollywood | August 3, 2026

For seven years, AOT has helped build a pipeline of emerging technology talent in Los Angeles, and this year’s Future Innovators Night put that talent on full display. . Students and executives from companies including NBCU, Paramount Pictures, AWS, and Wells Fargo gathered for an evening of student demos and an insightful conversation about where the industry is headed.

Four TECH360 students - Sofia R, Andrew S, Carlos R, and Khera B - took the stage to demo Carpe-DM, the AI chatbot they built - in just three weeks with us - that helps students in LA County get off their devices, connect with others, and engage in real life opportunities.

The Future of Work Panel, featuring Yemi Abayomi (Disney), Steve Lapinski (NBCU), and Cindy Eng (DreamWorks) and moderated by Greg Jensen (Alvarez and Marsal), gave students and guests a front-row seat to how the entertainment and media industries are thinking about AI and the future workforce.

The night's Alumni Keynote from Josue C traced the pathway AOT was built to offer.

Atlanta: Retreat by TGS | August 6, 202

Atlanta is one of the fastest-growing tech landscapes in the country, making it an important region for preparing the next generation of talent. Students connected with executives from Google, Microsoft, Salesforce, AWS, and more. We also heard impactful opening remarks from Fred Grigsby of Mastercard and a special video greeting from Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.

Three TECH360 students - Payton A, Shaima F, and S'Vante S - demoed their summer’s work: Taste With Strength, an AI chatbot that turns a user's pantry ingredients into a healthy, personalized recipe in seconds. Built on evidence-based nutrition data from Harvard's T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Harvard Health Publishing, the project tackled a real problem - food waste and the barriers to eating well - with a genuinely useful solution.

The Future of Work Panel brought together Rae Williams (Google), Kim Cross (Deluxe), Mike Binns (Meta), and Kendra Brown (FactSet), moderated by Terance Clement (Comcast).

Aila M, a TECH360 Fall 2025 graduate, Summer 2026 Peer Mentor, and incoming Tech Flex Leader, delivered the Alumni Keynote - a full-circle moment for a program entering its second year, and kicking off its first cohorts of the Tech Flex Leaders program.

In its very first year, Atlanta has already served 137 students across 35 high schools.

Miami: Jungle Island | August 11, 2026

Miami's AOT community is tight-knit and high-achieving, and Future Innovators Night at Jungle Island gave that community a moment to celebrate together. Students connected with executives from companies including HP, Blackstone, Accenture, and Kaufman Rossin for an evening centered on regional pride and real progress.

Five TECH360 students - Taylor P, Olf J, Joshia E, Hadassah B, and Nadir F - demoed NutritionBot, the AI chatbot they built together this summer to help students eat nutritious meals, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Christopher V, an incoming freshman at Florida International University and 2025-2026 Tech Flex Leader, delivered the Alumni Keynote, sharing the feats AOT already helped him achieve as he heads into his first year of college.

The Future of Work Panel featured Effie D. Silva (Del Monte), Martin Stier (HP), and Dave Chapman (Blackstone), moderated by AOT Co-Founder and President Evin Robinson.

Since 2022, Miami's program has served 678 enrollments across 88 high schools.

New York City: Mastercard | August 18, 2026

NYC closed out the series with the largest Future Innovators Night of them all, hosted at Mastercard's New York offices.

Rising seniors Aleks G, Mariam B, Roberto M, and Yinxin L demoed FunFinder AI, a project built to help high schoolers discover activities suited to their interests - which inspired our panelists as they shared a lively conversation about the Future of Work, featuring insights from Nicole Turner (Mastercard), Maria Ponce (Key Bank), and Reuben James (NBCU), moderated by Erinn Corbett-Wright (Salesforce).

The night also spotlighted AOT's Access Tech internship pipeline. Rohan Ramnarain, Co-Founder/CTO of Pharmachute Technologies, spoke about the power - and necessity - of opening doors for the next generation. Elijah W, a rising senior at University at Albany and Summer Cybersecurity Intern at IAC, shared that he will be joining NBCU as an intern this fall. Julianne A delivered the Alumni Keynote - closing the loop on a journey that started with TECH360 in 2020 and included three separate AOT fellowships along the way.

This year's NYC cohort was the largest in program history, with 525 unique enrollments across 103 high schools during Tech Flex Leaders 2025-2026 and TECH360 2026.

What This Summer Made Clear

Four cities. Four evenings. One consistent story: when students are given real tools, real mentorship, and a real seat at the table, they rise to the challenge, applying their creativity, curiosity, and technical skills to real-world problems.

From TECH360 chatbots solving everyday problems to alumni stepping into roles at NBCU, Accenture, and beyond, our 2026 Future Innovators Night events demonstrated what is possible when students have access to technical training, professional networks, mentorship, and career connected opportunities

Thank You to Our Partners

Building the future of work takes all of us. None of this happens without the corporate partners and supporters who open their doors, share their expertise, create opportunities, and invest in our students year after year.

A special thank you to Mastercard, Del Monte, Accenture, Salesforce, Deluxe, and Interpret for helping bring all four Future Innovators Night events to life. We also extend deep gratitude to Google, Meta, FactSet, Comcast, HP, Blackstone, NBCU, Disney, DreamWorks, Key Bank, Alvarez and Marsal, and the dozens of additional AOT champions for investing in the next generation of tech talent.

Join us at the 2026 Innovators and Disruptors Awards in NYC to help AOT continue the impact!

Sponsor or Attend IDA

Become an internship host, program supporter, or sponsor. Shape the next generation of tech talent.

Get Involved

]]><![CDATA[America On Tech Welcomes Shaown Nandi and Erica Marie Dionne to National Board of Directors]]>Tue, 07 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/america-on-tech-welcomes-shaown-nandi-and-erica-marie-dionne-to-national-board-of-directors

America On Tech (AOT), a national nonprofit preparing the next generation of technology leaders from underestimated communities, is proud to announce the appointment of two distinguished leaders to its National Board of Directors: Shaown Nandi, Vice President of Technology for AWS Global Sales at Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Erica Marie Dionne, Senior Vice President of Global Business Operations at NBCUniversal.

Nandi and Dionne bring deep industry expertise, strategic leadership, and a shared commitment to expanding access to technology education and career pathways for young people.

Shaown Nandi
Shaown Nandi is Vice President of Technology for AWS Global Sales at Amazon Web Services, where he leads a global team that partners with Fortune 500 enterprises to design and build innovative cloud solutions. He brings more than two decades of global technology leadership experience across cloud, digital transformation, and enterprise innovation.

Prior to AWS, Shaown served as Chief Information Officer at Dow Jones and Head of Shared Services at News Corp. He also spent part of his career at IBM, where he led global cloud product development teams.

A long-standing supporter of AOT, Shaown was honored at the 2025 National Innovators and Disruptors Awards for his leadership in expanding access to technology and his commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive future for the industry.

Erica Marie Dionne
Erica Marie Dionne serves as Senior Vice President of Global Business Operations for Universal Pictures. In this role, she leads operations strategy with oversight of end‑to‑end film and television launches across digital platforms, driving operational excellence and scalable systems to support NBCUniversal’s evolving distribution landscape.

Erica Marie has been a dedicated leader within the AOT community, serving as Chair of the Los Angeles Regional Advisory Board for the past five years and as an Innovators and Disruptors Awards co-chair. Her leadership has helped strengthen AOT’s presence in Los Angeles and deepen connections across industry, community, and student networks.

Dionne also sits on the CTA Content and Entertainment Council and is deeply committed to community leadership as a charter school PTO board member, a Girl Scout leader for over 40 members, and part of the Girl Scouts’ regional leadership team.

Expanding Leadership for Greater Impact

AOT Co-Founders Jessica Santana and Evin Robinson shared their excitement about the appointments:

“We are thrilled to welcome Shaown and Erica Marie to America On Tech’s National Board of Directors. Their strategic insight, industry expertise, and dedication to young people will help AOT expand its reach and prepare more students for success in the innovation economy.”

As AOT continues to scale its programs across the country, Shaown and Erica Marie will help guide the organization’s next chapter of growth, partnership, and student impact.

About America On Tech

America On Tech (AOT) is a national nonprofit preparing the next generation of technology leaders from underestimated communities. Since 2014, AOT has provided no-cost tech education and workforce training to students in NYC, LA, Miami, and Atlanta. AOT equips young people with in-demand skills in AI, Web Development, Data Science, and more, creating pathways to higher education and tech careers.

To date, AOT has served 6,600+ students, facilitated 1,500 paid internships generating $5.4M in wages, and distributed $3.3M in stipends. AOT alumni are twice as likely to attend college and five times more likely to pursue tech degrees.

]]><![CDATA[Tech Flex Leaders 2025–2026: 452 Students. Three Cities. One Unstoppable Community.]]>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/tech-flex-leaders-2025-2026-452-students-three-cities-one-unstoppable-community

When students first walk into the Tech Flex Leaders (TFL) program, they arrive with curiosity and some nerves. By the time they graduate, they’ve experienced a major shift. They're building real products, networking confidently with industry professionals, and mapping futures that felt out of reach just a year before.

This past year, America On Tech's (AOT) 2025–2026 Tech Flex Leaders program empowered 452 students across New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami with the technical skills, mentorship, and real-world experience needed to lead in the innovation economy.

By the Numbers

The data tells a consistent story across all three cities. Among our program graduates:

New York City: Scale, Community, and Belonging

NYC's 2025-2026 cohort was the largest in program history - 281 students from 103 high schools across the five boroughs. Sustained attendance, strong technical gains, and survey results that reflect a genuine community of trust made this one of the program's most successful cycles to date.

281 students enrolled
92% average daily attendance
90% increase in web dev assessment scores

Every spring track boasted double-digit gains. Every student who came in curious left with concrete skills and a clearer path forward.

The survey results also reflected a community of trust. 96% of graduates said staff and mentors were positive role models. 92% felt part of a community that genuinely cared about their well-being. As one graduate put it: "Because of the safe space that this program provides, I am able to comfortably ask questions."

Of NYC's 143 graduating seniors, the college outlook is striking:

99% will attend college in the fall.
96% will attend a four-year institution.
80% are pursuing STEM or tech degrees
2/3 will be first-generation college students.

Los Angeles: Heart, Hustle, and Student Ownership

LA graduated 94 students from 58 high schools - and posted some of the strongest student experience scores in the program's history.

97% said the environment felt inclusive.
98% felt seen and represented in the curriculum.
51% growth in Product Management skills, with major gains across all tracks.

The LA team was committed to student ownership this year. Students selected both Community Engagement events by vote, and the Analog Day scavenger hunt - themed around reconnecting in person - became one of the year's most talked-about moments. Four students attended both community events and earned inaugural Community Star Awards at TFL Graduation. This honor celebrates their commitment to building community, in class and beyond.

Of LA's graduating seniors,

100% will attend college in the fall.
3/4 are pursuing STEM or tech degrees.
80% will be first-generation college students.

Miami: Tight-Knit, High-Achieving, Built on Connection

Miami's results display the strength of AOT’s programs! Of our 37 graduates:

100% were satisfied with their experience.
100% would recommend it to a friend.
100% felt seen and represented in the curriculum.

Miami's team built a genuine community across virtual and in-person settings - enjoying a Jack-o-Lantern Jamboree and a Field Day Fest at Amelia Earhart Park as their community events. Graduates also boasted incredible academic gains, displaying the power of inclusivity:

97% left the program with a professional network.
97% said staff and mentors were positive role models.
70% growth in web dev skills, with major gains across all tracks.

AI-Ready and Future-Focused

This year, TFL wove artificial intelligence into programming across all tracks - and graduates left with confidence and competence in this rapidly-expanding technology. Across all three cities,

97%+ said they confidently know what AI is.
94%+ said they understand both its benefits and its risks.
90%+ said they feel prepared to keep learning about AI after TFL.

The program isn't just teaching students to use AI - it's building the critical thinkers the industry actually needs to impact the future of technology.

Students Said it Best

Our data tells a story and identifies clear, positive trends - our students enjoyed the program, and grew a ton from it. Student testimonials doubled down on our findings:

Peer Mentors: The Full-Circle Effect

AOT’s commitment to students extends beyond our high school programs. 33 peer mentors across all three cities - recent AOT alumni stepping back into the program as near-peer guides - shaped the student experience and transformed their own. Every single Peer Mentor said they would return to the role.

Across all three cities, 96%+ of students viewed staff, instructors, and peer mentors as positive role models. These young mentors didn't just support the program - they were central to what made the program work for students.

367 graduates. Three cities. Hundreds of high schools. A theory of change that the data keeps proving. We couldn’t be more proud!

To the Class of 2025–2026: you did that. We can't wait to see what you build next!

The next cohort starts soon

367 students proved this year what's possible when young people from underestimated communities are given the tools, mentorship, and belief they deserve. Help us do it again!

Students & Families

Applications are open for the 2026–2027 Tech Flex Leaders program in NYC, LA, Miami, and Atlanta.
Apply now →

Corporate Partners

Become an internship host, program supporter, or sponsor. Shape the next generation of tech talent.
Get involved →

]]><![CDATA[AI in ATL: TECH360 Atlanta Year One]]>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 08:06:45 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/ai-in-atl-tech360-atlanta-year-one

The future of tech is not built in boardrooms. It is built in the moments when a young person discovers what they are capable of, finds a community that believes in them, and decides to stop waiting for an invitation. In Atlanta this year, 50 students stopped waiting. They showed up, built something real, and left with a vision of their future that no one can take from them.

In AOT's inaugural year in Atlanta, the TECH360 "Intro to AI" Program graduated 50 students across two cohorts, established a replicable recruitment model, and students engaged with technologists from JPMorgan Chase, Warner Bros. Discovery, Snowflake, and Grainger. Every program graduate left with foundational AI skills, a professional network they built themselves, and the kind of confidence that extends well beyond the classroom.

A Program Built for Impact

Fall 2025 was the proof of concept. Spring 2026 was the proof of scale.

50 graduates across 2 cohorts
16 high schools represented
100% of students would recommend the program to a friend

We launched our first Atlanta program in Fall 2025 wanting to build meaningful outcomes and greater interest for the TECH360 program. The results answered clearly.

Technical assessment scores jumped 47% from pre- to post-program. Every graduate reported high satisfaction with their experience and left with a working knowledge of generative AI including its applications, strengths, risks, and limitations.

Students did not just learn AI theories, they built with it. Teams developed AI-powered chatbots addressing real-world challenges, from sustainable living to travel planning. Graduates then presented their work at Atlanta's Future Innovators Night, in front of community members, families, and corporate partners. For many, this was the first time on a stage of that kind.

For the second cohort, the impact was even greater. Spring enrollment grew to 34 graduates. Technical assessment scores climbed to 66% (19 points higher than the first cohort). And graduates built a lasting professional network.

This second cohort also welcomed its first Peer Mentor, Christie, an AOT Miami graduate and Emory University junior studying Applied Mathematics and Neuroscience. Her presence in the classroom represented something important: proof that the program's impact compounds over time, and that AOT alumni return to invest in the students who come after them.

What Students Actually Walk Away With

In TECH360, technical skills and critical thinking aren't separate tracks; they're the same lesson. Students learn how generative AI works, how to evaluate its outputs, and how to wrestle with the ethical questions that come with using it. By graduation, they can articulate both the promise and the risk of a technology reshaping every industry they might enter.

They also leave with something harder to measure: a professional network built through real interaction with people already working in the field.

Career Days brought students face-to-face with professionals from JPMorgan Chase and Warner Bros. Discovery. The "Life of a Technologist" immersive event at JPMorgan Chase brought students face-to-face with early-career technologists who shared their backgrounds, navigated similar paths, and were invested in holding the door open for the students who came after them.

Zarek, a 12th grader who came into the fall program drawn by the stipend, left with something he didn't expect. He connected with a JPMorgan Chase professional who turned out to share his Jamaican heritage. He built a relationship at Warner Bros. Discovery that stuck. And he still stays connected with those from his cohort, "Surprisingly, we talk to each other almost every day."

Aniyah, an 11th grader whose high school lacked STEM programming, left with a career path: Machine Learning Engineer. She also gained powerful and advice from a working professional she hasn't stopped thinking about. "Don't be a leap frog. Build skills. Learn from mentors. Grow into leadership. Hearing that from people who are actually doing the work gave me a new perspective on what it means to build a long-term career in tech.”

Making Waves Across Atlanta

"Seeing students who were initially quieter become more engaged, collaborative, and excited to share their ideas was probably one of my favorite parts."
Christie, Atlanta Peer Mentor and AOT Miami Graduate, studying Applied Mathematics and Neuroscience at Emory University

"This isn't just an after-school program to pass time; it truly feels like a preparation space for real life."
Mariah, 11th Grade, Spring Cohort Graduate

"Not only am I more confident in my technological abilities, but I have fundamental knowledge of artificial intelligence concepts and how this innovative technology is transforming our world."
Lillian, 10th Grade, Spring Cohort Graduate

Year One Was Just the Beginning

This program is made possible through the support of national and local funders committed to expanding access to high-quality technology education. Funders of the Atlanta TECH360 program include Citi Foundation, Comcast NBCUniversal, JPMorgan Chase Foundation, New Profit, Salesforce, and Warner Bros. Discovery.

Year two starts now.

Be Part of What Comes Next

Students & Families
Applications are open for the 2026–2027 Tech Flex Leaders program in NYC, LA, Miami, and Atlanta.

Apply now →

Corporate Partners
Become an internship host, program supporter, or sponsor. Shape the next generation of tech talent.

Get involved →

]]><![CDATA[From Fellowship to Future: America On Tech's 2025-2026 Tech Skills Fellowship]]>Thu, 28 May 2026 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/from-fellowship-to-future-america-on-techs-2025-2026-tech-skills-fellowship

When Allena started college, she had a gut feeling she couldn't quite explain: a pull toward the stories hiding inside spreadsheets and datasets. What she didn't have was a clear path to turn that instinct into a career. AOT’s Tech Skills Fellowship Program changed that.

Allena isn't alone. This spring, America On Tech wrapped its fourth annual Tech Skills Fellowship - and this year, the program went bigger, deeper, and further than ever before.

A Bolder Program for a Competitive World

AI and a rapidly shifting hiring landscape are reshaping what it means to be a competitive early-career technologist. AOT's answer? Go deeper.

This year, we made a bold move: replacing our traditional series of shorter tracks with two intensive, year-long programs in the fields where employer demand is highest - Data Science and Cybersecurity. Twenty weeks of sustained technical training. Real, industry-recognized certifications. A professional network that grows with you.

And for the first time ever, the Data Science Fellowship expanded to the West Coast, opening 25 dedicated seats for talent in Los Angeles.

Impact Number:

99% of fellows were satisfied or extremely satisfied with the experience
100% said the fellowship environment felt inclusive and safe
93% left with a strong network of peers and professionals to lean on
98% said volunteer workshops gave them skills and insight they'll carry beyond the program
27 fellows have already confirmed tech internships or full-time roles - with more being added every week as we head into summer

Inside the Tracks

Data Science

In partnership with NBCUniversal and FactSet, fellows dove deep into Python, data manipulation, visualization, and foundational machine learning through the DataCamp curriculum. Fellows also built technical portfolios, real projects, and the DataCamp Data Science Associate Certification exam.

The results speak for themselves. 95% of fellows reported mastering core data science concepts. Of those who've already sat for the exam, 83% passed, with more graduates still testing as the summer rolls on.

For Allena, now applying to internships with a certification and a portfolio to back her up, the program didn't just teach her Python. It made the career feel reachable.

"I am now actively applying to internships with a clearer direction, an added certification, and a readiness I did not have before. This fellowship was not just a learning experience - it was a stepping stone that made the path forward feel real and within reach." - Allena O

Cybersecurity

In partnership with NBCUniversal and Blackstone, fellows learned about network architecture, threat detection, encryption, access control, and incident response - all building toward the globally recognized CompTIA Security+ Certification. Every fellow who sat for the exam reported feeling exceptionally prepared going in.

The program's capstone said it all: a two-week tabletop exercise led by NBCUniversal's corporate security team, where fellows stepped into the role of security analysts responding to a live, evolving cyber threat. No hand-holding. Just the skills they'd spent a year building - applied in real time.

106 Volunteers. Real Relationships.

Some of the most powerful moments in this fellowship happened because of who showed up.

106 corporate volunteers from NBCUniversal, FactSet, Blackstone, Chime, and L'Oréal led technical workshops, mock interviews, resume reviews, and candid career conversations that helped fellows connect their coursework to real career possibilities.

"My favorite part was the Wednesday Volunteer Workshop sessions," said Yemaya F., LA-based Data Science Fellow. "It brought so much insight as to what different roles in the same industry look like, and I was able to create real connections with the guest speakers."

Career-Ready From Day One

Knowing Python won't get you hired if you can't tell your story. That's why every fellow also completed a 10-module career readiness series, earning an Accenture Professional Development Certificate along the way, with 100% completion rate across both tracks.

Fellows worked on LinkedIn presence, resume writing, interviewing, and how to translate technical work into language that makes hiring managers pay attention. They were also grouped by school or city, so the connections they built weren't just professional contacts - they were people already sitting in the same classrooms.

27 Hired. And the Number Keeps Climbing.

AOT intentionally recruited sophomores and juniors for this cycle to catch students at exactly the right moment to step directly into internship and early-career pipelines.

It's already paying off in a big way. As of mid-May, 27 fellows have locked in technology internships or full-time roles at companies including Accenture, NBCUniversal, Con Edison, and Crowdstrike. With summer recruiting still in full swing, that number is only going up.

Elijah Williams, a Cybersecurity major at SUNY Albany, is heading into summer as an incoming Cybersecurity Analyst at IAC. His CompTIA Security+ Certification opened doors he didn't have before. Dr. Massey and the passionate group of volunteers made the material stick. And the fellowship, as Elijah puts it, started a snowball that hasn't stopped rolling.

Get Involved

Want to mentor, volunteer, or partner on the next cohort? Visit our website to learn how to get involved!

Ready to hire AOT-certified talent? Connect with Brian on our talent team: Brian@americaontech.org

Visit WEBSITE

HIRE TALENT

]]><![CDATA[America On Tech’s Future of Work Luncheons Build Momentum for Future Innovators Nights Across LA, Miami, Atlanta, and NYC]]>Fri, 08 May 2026 10:13:02 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/america-on-techs-future-of-work-luncheons-build-momentum-for-future-innovators-nights-across-la-miami-atlanta-and-nyc

Across the country, the future of work is being shaped by rapid advances in artificial intelligence. For America On Tech (AOT), that future must include clear pathways for young people from underestimated communities to gain the technical skills, professional networks, and real-world opportunities needed to thrive.

This spring, AOT hosted Future of Work Luncheons in Los Angeles, Miami, and Atlanta, bringing together executives, corporate partners, technologists, and community leaders for timely conversations on innovation, talent development, and the role employers can play in preparing the next generation of technology leaders.

These gatherings reinforced a shared belief: investing in future-ready talent is essential to sustaining innovation in every major tech ecosystem.

Building Momentum in Los Angeles

LA’s Future of Work Luncheon, sponsored by Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Salesforce, convened executives across entertainment and technology to explore how innovation and talent development are transforming the workforce.

The conversation featured:

Daryl Bowden, EVP of Product Engineering, FOX Corporation
Erica Marie Dionne, SVP, Global Business Operations, NBCUniversal
Harry Leshner, Partner Development Director, Snowflake
Kavita Anand, SVP of Enterprise Practices, Qvest
Moderated by Remy Kouffman, Senior Customer Solutions Manager, AWS

Through curated networking, a powerful student spotlight, and a forward-looking panel discussion, the luncheon highlighted the importance of building scalable, tech-enabled pathways for young people in Los Angeles.

Advancing Innovation and Community Impact in Miami

In Miami, AOT’s Future of Work Luncheon, sponsored by Blackstone and Salesforce, brought together a dynamic group of professionals to discuss the evolving landscape of work, talent, and technology.

AOT was honored to welcome:

Catalina Arango, Senior Vice President, Technology & Innovations Group, Blackstone
Juan-Carlos Gutierrez, Managing Director, Technology and Innovation for North America, AWS
Luisfe Cisneros, Global Business Manager, HP
Olga Naumovich, Head of Technology, Millennium Management
Moderated by Jina Braynon, Managing Director, Accenture

From AI innovation to community impact, the conversation reflected the strength of Miami’s growing tech ecosystem and the importance of connecting students to industry professionals who can help expand their understanding of what is possible.

Planting Deep Roots in Atlanta

AOT’s Future of Work Luncheon in Atlanta marked a major milestone for the organization’s newest region. Sponsored by Comcast and Salesforce, the event brought together top executives to discuss how Atlanta’s youth can help lead the next wave of technology and workforce innovation.
AOT was grateful to hear from:

Keisha Ebbesen, Senior Business Program Manager, Microsoft
Steve McDonald, Director, Cloud Sales Center, AWS
Cortland Russell, Atlanta Market Deputy Director & Sr. Manager, Accenture
Moderated by Reginald Acloque, Principal, RJ Anthony & Co.

Atlanta’s tech scene has a unique energy, and the luncheon reflected the city’s powerful mix of corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, and community commitment.

What’s Next: Future Innovators Nights

The momentum continues this August with AOT’s Future Innovators Nights in Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, and New York City. These signature events will celebrate the next generation of AI-ready talent and serve as the culmination of AOT’s TECH360: Intro to AI program.

Each evening will bring together corporate leaders, technologists, funders, and community partners for networking, student project showcases, and continued conversations about the future of work.

For companies investing in future talent, advancing AI strategy, or looking to build stronger connections with emerging technologists, Future Innovators Nights offers executive networking, interactive student AI showcases, live corporate AI demonstrations, and fireside chats with senior leaders.

Future Innovators Nights will take place in Los Angeles on August 4; Miami on August 11, 2026; Atlanta on August 13, 2026; and New York City on August 18, 2026.

Interested in attending or sponsoring?

Email Janine

]]><![CDATA[Showcasing the Future of Tech: AOT’s December Demo Days Across Four Cities]]>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/showcasing-the-future-of-tech-aots-december-demo-days-across-four-cities

From coast to coast, AOT students wowed audiences with bold ideas and real-world tech solutions.

December marked the culmination of a powerful semester for America On Tech’s Tech Flex Leaders (TFL) program as students across New York, Los Angeles, and Miami gathered to present their final projects at regional Demo Days.

And for the first time, Atlanta joined the celebration with our inaugural Future Innovators Night, ushering in a new era of tech talent in the South.

A Semester of Growth and Impact

The results speak volumes:

New York: 280 students, 85% completion rate, 100% average project completion
Los Angeles: 118 students, 86% completion rate, 100% average project completion
Miami: 52 students, 77% completion rate, 100% average project completion

Students not only built robust portfolios of technical projects, but also significantly improved their assessment scores, setting a strong foundation for future internships and careers in technology.

Spotlight on December’s Demo Day Events

Across all three cities, December Demo Days gave students the opportunity to present web applications to panels of industry professionals and community members. Together, these events highlighted the creativity, technical skill, and leadership of the next generation of technology professionals.

New York: Innovating for Good at AWS

Held at Amazon Web Services in New York City, students took on the challenge of designing and pitching full-scale e-commerce websites for mock clients, transforming abstract client needs into polished, real-world digital solutions. In a high-energy, competition-style showcase, teams presented their platforms live to an audience of mentors, families, and industry professionals, who served as judges. Projects were evaluated on the depth of client understanding, strategic website organization, innovative and compelling features, and the teams’ ability to confidently present and defend their work in a professional setting.

The event celebrated far more than finished websites. It marked the culmination of months of intensive web development, collaboration, and problem-solving, made possible through the combined efforts of NYC program managers, instructors, and dedicated peer mentors. Students walked away not only having built functional online products but having demonstrated the poise, teamwork, and technical confidence required to succeed in real tech environments.

Los Angeles: Creativity Meets Code

LA students brought their projects to life with a focus on entertainment, wellness tech, and mental health platforms. The collaborative atmosphere highlighted the city’s vibrant tech ecosystem, as students used their creativity to address real-world issues. The event reinforced how the TFL program nurtures innovation and teamwork.

Miami: Solutions Rooted in Community

Miami’s Demo Day reflected the region’s unique culture, with student-led projects focused on local small businesses and youth-driven consumer brands. Projects such as EcoWave (surfboards and the surfing community), Vibetech (tech accessories), TechByte (gaming equipment), and Urban Pulse Streetwear (fashion) showcased students’ creativity, entrepreneurship, and understanding of their local market. The energy and engagement throughout the event underscored the importance of building a tech talent pipeline that supports South Florida students and their ideas.

A New Era in Atlanta: Future Innovators Night

For the first time ever, Atlanta hosted a Future Innovators Night, celebrating our first TECH360: Intro to AI student cohort in Atlanta. Hosted at Warner Bros. Discovery and sponsored by TNT Sports, the event brought together leaders across Atlanta to witness the incredible work of our first Atlanta cohort. From live student chatbot demos to a dynamic fireside chat on AI with Michael Koetter (SVP, Digital Media Systems at Warner Bros. Discovery) and Vamsi Duvvuri (Partner and TMT AI Leader at EY), the night was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when community and industry come together.

“It was inspiring to see how quickly Atlanta students embraced the AOT mission,” said Jessica Santana, AOT Co-Founder & CEO. “They’re already building community, sharing ideas, and shaping the future of tech in their city.”

This event set the stage for additional Intro to AI cohorts this spring and Atlanta’s first full TFL cohort launching in fall 2026 signaling AOT’s commitment to expanding access to tech education across the South.

What’s Next: Spring Semester and Internships Ahead

As we gear up for the spring semester, students will continue their journey through the TFL program. Graduates of this program will soon become eligible for paid summer internships through AOT’s Access Tech Internship Program, connecting emerging talent with 80+ employer partners across the tech sector.

For corporate partners: Learn how to host an intern this summer

host an intern

]]><![CDATA[From Classroom to Career: How AOT’s 2025 Access Tech Internship Program is Powering the Future of Tech]]>Tue, 21 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/from-classroom-to-career-how-aots-2025-access-tech-internship-program-is-powering-the-future-of-tech

This past summer, America On Tech once again proved what’s possible when underestimated talent is given real opportunity. Through our 2025 Access Tech Internship Program, 270 students across New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami launched into paid tech internships at companies like Accenture, Brim Financial, NYC Civic Engagement Commission (CEC), Trust Point AI, and Volunteer Local.

Impact at a glance:

270 total internships across NYC, LA, and Miami
$1.4M+ in total wages earned
97% of hosts would work with their AOT intern again
94.7% of interns were satisfied or extremely satisfied with their experience

These internships didn’t just build resumes—they built confidence, networks, and career-ready skills.

Real Projects. Real Impact.

Interns didn’t just observe—they contributed. One student developed an app to help New Yorkers locate voting sites during participatory budgeting. Another crafted a content calendar now powering a company’s digital outreach strategy for months ahead. Teams of interns helped implement APIs to streamline donation processes. From small, hyperlocal nonprofits to large, global corporations, America On Tech's interns meaningfully contributed to innovation and growth, while building critical skills to set them up for long-term success.

Why This Matters for Employers

At a time when many companies are scaling back early talent efforts, AOT is doubling down. Our interns bring emerging tech skills, a broad range of perspectives, and an eagerness to contribute. They’re not the talent of the future—they’re the talent of right now.

Just ask Accenture, which has hosted over 40 AOT interns to date, with multiple hires converted to full-time roles. Or the NYC CEC, which noted that their AOT intern’s project will “continue to benefit New Yorkers long after the summer ends.”

If your company wants to drive innovation, build a diverse talent pipeline, and make a lasting impact—AOT interns are the answer.

Ready to step up and hire the next generation of tech leaders?

Learn How

]]><![CDATA[Summer 2025 TECH360: Empowering the Next Generation of AI Leaders]]>Wed, 01 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/summer-2025-tech360-empowering-the-next-generation-of-ai-leadersThis summer, America On Tech transformed how young people from underestimated communities engage with artificial intelligence. Our reimagined TECH360 program—now focused entirely on AI literacy—reached 386 students across New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami, delivering cutting-edge education that positions them as leaders in the AI revolution.

Building AI Fluency for Tomorrow's Workforce

TECH360's "Intro to AI" curriculum equipped students with the knowledge, skills, and mindsets to confidently interact with artificial intelligence. Over three intensive weeks, students progressed from AI foundations through machine learning applications, culminating in building their own AI-powered chatbots.

Program Impact at a Glance:

386 students graduated across NYC, LA, and Miami with an overall 94% completion rate
99% of students said they would recommend TECH360 to a friend interested in technology
96% of graduates reported understanding AI literacy concepts, and 90% can now evaluate AI tool outputs
$167,275 in stipends were distributed to remove financial barriers to participation
91% of graduates gained confidence in networking with professionals and peers after completing the program
78% of students feel more prepared to pursue technology degrees and careers post-graduation

Creating Pathways Through Corporate Partnership

Our corporate partners didn't just provide funding—they opened doors. Students engaged directly with professionals from Accenture, Blackstone, BNY, Citi, FactSet, GitHub, HP, Intuit, Mastercard, Microsoft, NBCUniversal, Nielsen, Okta, PwC, Qvest, and Salesforce through career days, guest speaking sessions, and demo day judging. These connections proved transformational, with 95% of students reporting that career exposure activities helped them better understand technology career paths.

During demo day competitions, student teams showcased innovative AI solutions addressing real-world challenges. Projects ranged from "MyAbuelitaCounselor"—a culturally-responsive college guidance chatbot—to "NutriBuddy," an AI nutrition assistant for teens. These presentations demonstrated not just technical skill, but the creative problem-solving that emerges when diverse perspectives meet cutting-edge technology.

Looking Ahead: Atlanta Expansion

The success of summer 2025 TECH360 has paved the way for our newest regional expansion. On September 22, 2025, we launched TECH360 in Atlanta, bringing the same transformative AI education to students in Georgia's tech hub. Running through December 4th, the Atlanta program represents AOT's continued commitment to expanding access to cutting-edge technology education.

Ready to partner with AOT in preparing the next generation of AI-literate leaders? Learn more about supporting AOT and help us expand access to cutting-edge technology education nationwide.

Learn More

]]><![CDATA[America On Tech Receives $2.5 Million Investment from Google.org to Expand AI Education and Workforce Opportunities]]>Thu, 25 Sep 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/google

September 25, 2025 – New York, NY — America On Tech (AOT), a national technology talent accelerator preparing the next generation of technology leaders, today announced they have received $2.5 million in funding from Google.org. This landmark contribution will accelerate AOT’s mission to expand access to high-quality AI education and pathways to in-demand, high-earning careers in tech.

The funding will enable AOT to scale its proven programs and expand its current offerings in artificial intelligence. By doing so, AOT will position young people to compete in today’s AI-driven job market, which positions them for upward mobility and economic empowerment. Students will receive tuition-free technical training, stipends for their participation, mentorship, and access to a pool of employers for paid internships and full-time jobs.

“Google’s investment is a powerful endorsement of the future we are building—a future where students have full access to opportunities in artificial intelligence and technology,” said Jessica Santana, Co-Founder and CEO of America On Tech. “This support allows us to deepen our impact, scale our reach, and continue preparing students for both economic mobility and industry leadership.”

“Google’s latest investment will allow AOT to create a larger social impact and deepen our innovative programs,” said Evin Floyd Robinson, Co-founder and President of America On Tech. “This has always been our goal and today's investment is an amplifier and testament to the dedication of our team and the importance of future tech talent.”

"We are incredibly proud to deepen our investment in local expertise and leadership," said Shanika Hope, Google.org Director of Knowledge, Skills, and Learning. "By supporting America On Tech with this funding, we are ensuring that vital STEM education continues to thrive, reaching even more students where they are, and fostering innovation for years to come.”

Employers in a rapidly evolving tech sector face a shrinking pipeline of AI-ready talent, forcing many to invest heavily in reskilling or upskilling new hires to meet industry demands. Just 15% of U.S. high school students - predominantly from well-resourced schools - have any exposure to AI concepts, leaving underestimated students at a significant disadvantage as AI transforms the labor market.

Only 52% of public high schools across New York State offer at least a foundational computer science course. That’s below the national average of 60%. This further constrains the pool of candidates with essential technical skills. Without early, equitable access to AI education, employers risk slower innovation, higher training costs, and missed opportunities to fill critical roles in the innovation economy.

Over the past decade, AOT has:

Served 5,300+ students
Facilitated 1,000+ paid internships, generating more than $4.1 million in wages for students.
Achieved outcomes where 85% of alumni pursue tech-related degrees and/or careers

To learn more about America On Tech’s programs or support its mission, visit www.americaontech.org.

Media Contact:
Stanley Smith
National Director of Strategy
stanley@americaontech.org
www.americaontech.org

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