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

<![CDATA[America On Tech | Creating Pathways to Technology - News]]>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 16:36:50 -0400Weebly<![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

]]><![CDATA[America On Tech's Evin Robinson Joins Chime Community Changemakers]]>Thu, 04 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/america-on-techs-evin-robinson-joins-chime-changemakers-program

America On Tech (AOT) Co-Founder and President Evin Robinson traveled to San Francisco in August to participate in the Chime Community Changemakers™, a groundbreaking initiative that unites influential leaders committed to driving meaningful social impact. The event brought together changemakers from across the country, fostering collaboration, learning, and strategic partnerships aimed at supporting underestimated communities nationwide.

Chime Community Changemakers is a powerful program designed to amplify the efforts of leaders who are already creating significant impact in their communities. This year, the program provided Evin and other participants with an opportunity to engage directly with Chime’s senior leadership team, gain insights on scaling initiatives, and exchange ideas with fellow innovators that are transforming communities across America.

Evin Robinson
President of America On Tech.

"We are grateful and excited to be a part of the Chime Changemakers cohort. A community and initiative centered around positive impact and doing good together."

Kira Traore
Director Social Impact, Chime

"Chime is so excited to have AOT as part of this year's Changemaker cohort. AOT's focus on expanding access to careers in tech aligns so strongly with Chime's mission of unlocking financial progress. We know together, we can continue to expand and build upon AOT's success to reach more young people."

Strategic Insights and Future Partnership

The program provided invaluable opportunities for strategic insights and networking with top leaders at Chime and other impact-driven organizations. These connections will further enhance AOT’s model and reinforce its role as a leading organization dedicated to empowerment and digital inclusion.

Through Robinson’s leadership and the support of visionary partners like Chime, AOT continues to expand its innovative programming and strategic approach.

Join Our Movement

At America On Tech, we’re dedicated to building bridges and opening doors. Whether you’re a corporate partner, tech industry leader, or someone passionate about technology, there’s a place for you in this work.
Become a partner and help shape the future of tech talent.

Learn more

]]><![CDATA[Celebrating Community and Partnership: President of America On Tech Speaks at Citi’s New Flagship Branch Opening]]>Mon, 25 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/celebrating-community-and-partnership-president-of-america-on-tech-speaks-at-citis-new-flagship-branch-opening

New York, NY – The energy was high at the grand opening of Citi’s stunning new Citibank Center at 734 Lexington Avenue, where leaders from across the city gathered to celebrate. Among the distinguished speakers was Evin Floyd Robinson, Co-founder and President of America On Tech (AOT), who took the stage to honor Citi’s commitment to expanding opportunities and deepening local impact.

Spotlight on a Shared Mission

Evin shared in his remarks that:

“Citi’s leadership in community investment is making a lasting difference—not only for America On Tech, but for countless other organizations within the Community Progress Makers portfolio. Together, we’re not just equipping NYC communities with technical skills—we’re opening doors to opportunity, mobility, and meaningful careers.”

The event concluded with a ribbon-cutting. For AOT, it was another reminder that lasting change happens when mission-driven organizations and corporate leaders work hand-in-hand.

A Partnership Driving Impact

Since 2022, Citi Foundation has been one of AOT’s most impactful partners, investing through two cycles of the Community Progress Makers initiative. This support has enabled AOT to:

Scale high school programs in NYC
Embed AI training into all curricula
Launch Alumni Fellowship tracks with industry-recognized certifications
Expand internship and job placement programs

Beyond funding, nearly 100 Citi employees have volunteered with AOT students—hosting career days, leading resume and interview workshops, mentoring, and sharing financial literacy resources.

]]><![CDATA[America On Tech and Inspiredu Partner to Launch TECH360: Intro to AI in Atlanta]]>Tue, 12 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/america-on-tech-and-inspiredu-partner-to-launch-tech360-intro-to-ai-in-atlanta

Expanding Access to Emerging Tech Education for Metro Atlanta High School Students

Atlanta, GA – August 12, 2025 – America On Tech (AOT), a national nonprofit preparing the next generation of technology leaders from underestimated communities, is proud to announce a new partnership with Inspiredu, whose purpose is to bridge the gaps in digital literacy and access by providing Georgia most marginalized communities and vulnerable citizens with the resources and support they need to be competitive in pursuit of education and work preparedness.

Through this partnership, AOT will launch its acclaimed TECH360: Intro to AI program in Atlanta’s Westside this fall. This marks the first time the program will be offered in Atlanta.
AOT will lead the implementation of the 10-week hybrid program, while Inspiredu will serve as both a community recruitment partner—leveraging its network of 5,000+ families—and the program host site. In-person classes will be held at Inspiredu’s Volunteer & Training Center, a Flagship Lift Zone powered by Comcast, a state-of-the-art facility that offers free Wi-Fi and serves as a community hub for digital learning and innovation.

“This partnership with Inspiredu brings our mission full circle—ensuring young people in Atlanta have the opportunity to learn future-ready skills in AI and technology,” said Jessica Santana, CEO, and Evin Floyd Robinson, President, the Co-Founders of America On Tech. "Together we are creating pathways that lead to economic mobility and tech career readiness.”

“At Inspiredu, we are thrilled to welcome AOT to Atlanta and serve as the host site for this transformative program,” said Richard Hicks, CEO of Inspiredu. “Together, we are bridging the digital divide by preparing students with the tools and support they need to thrive in the tech-driven world.”

Powered by a Network of National Support

This program and partnership 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:

About the TECH360 Program

TECH360: Intro to AI is a free, beginner-friendly tech program designed for high school students interested in the future of technology. Over the course of 10 weeks, students will explore the fundamentals of artificial intelligence (AI), gain hands-on experience with tools shaping tomorrow’s world, and learn directly from professionals working in the tech industry.

Program Highlights:

Completely free to participate
Open to high school students in the Metro Atlanta area
Hybrid format with in-person sessions at Inspiredu’s Volunteer & Training Center
Focus on introductory artificial intelligence concepts and tools
Learn from industry experts and tech mentors
Build real projects and explore college and career pathways in tech
Earn $500 upon successful completion of the program
No prior coding or tech experience required - just curiosity and enthusiasm!

Applications for TECH360: Intro to AI are open now and close on August 24, 2025.

APPLY NOW

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 careers.
To date, AOT has served 5,300+ students, facilitated 1,000+ paid internships, generating $4.1M in wages, and distributed $2.4M in stipends. AOT alumni are twice as likely to attend college and five times more likely to pursue tech degrees.

learn more

About Inspiredu

Inspiredu is a Georgia-based nonprofit organization working to bridge the gaps in device ownership, digital literacy, and digital access by providing underserved learners of all ages with the devices and training they need to develop the digital skills necessary for educational and career success. In Inspiredu’s digital skilling workshops, participants learn fundamental technical skills such as operating the computer and accessing the internet, practicing internet safety, using basic software such as Microsoft Office, understanding how to use technology to increase financial wellness or acquire certifications to bolster work readiness, and understanding how to use online resources to support student learning. Inspiredu partners with community-based organizations to serve individuals and families in low-to-moderate income households as they work to bridge the digital divide within the state of Georgia.

LEARN MORE

Media Contact:
Stanley Smith, America On Tech
Stanley@americaontech.org

]]><![CDATA[America On Tech Celebrates Its Official Launch in Atlanta]]>Thu, 07 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/america-on-tech-celebrates-its-official-launch-in-atlanta

On July 10, 2025, 200 technology, education, and workforce development leaders came together at 5Church Midtown in Atlanta to celebrate a monumental milestone: the official launch of America On Tech (AOT) in Atlanta. It was an evening filled with inspiration, powerful conversations, and a shared vision for expanding access to technology careers for students from underestimated communities in the metro Atlanta. The event was sponsored by Micron, Insight Global, AWS, Mastercard, and Comcast NBCUniversal.

Why Atlanta, Why Now?

America On Tech’s expansion to Atlanta is part of its national strategy to bring tech education to communities that have historically lacked access to such opportunities. As one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the country, Atlanta is uniquely positioned to shape a future where innovation is driven by a broad range of perspectives. The launch also marks the debut of AOT’s redesigned TECH360 “Intro to AI” program, which is preparing rising high school juniors and seniors with artificial intelligence skills.

Jessica Santana and Evin Robinson, AOT Co-Founders, shared their reflections on the milestone

“Atlanta has long been a hub of innovation and culture, and now it’s becoming a powerful force in tech. Launching here isn’t just about growth—it’s about ensuring that young people in this region are part of the future we’re building in tech. We are honored to expand AOT’s mission into Atlanta.”

A Night of Purpose and Possibility

The highlight of the evening was a dynamic panel discussion on The Future of Work in Technology in Atlanta, featuring:

Candace M. Stanciel, Chief Equity Officer, City of Atlanta
Kelsie Daniels, VP, Information Technology, Cobb EMC
DeWayne Griffin, Chief Digital & Information Officer, Insight Global
Andy Markus, SVP and Chief Data & AI Officer, AT&T
Latricia Shepard, Chief Talent and Diversity Officer, Spencer Fane LLP (Moderator)

Remarks from Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens (watch video) and Joey Womack (watch video), CEO of Goodie Nation, further grounded the evening in the city's future of innovation.

watch the event recap

From Student to Future Leader

One of the most powerful moments of the night came from Kihanna Johnson, an AOT alumna and current Spelman College student. In a heartfelt speech, Kihanna reminded us of what’s possible when students are given real access and meaningful opportunity:

“America On Tech didn’t just teach me how to code. It made me feel seen and prepared me to step into rooms I once thought were out of reach.”

Watch Video

What’s Next: Get Involved in Atlanta

AOT’s work is powered by partnerships—and we’re just getting started in Atlanta. Here’s how you or your organization can support this next chapter:

Share Student Application: Share the Intro to AI program application with potential Atlanta students: Application deadline August 24.

Get Your Company Involved: Schedule an introductory call here with Stan Smith
- Organize a group volunteer event
- Hire an Intern (2027)

Make a Donation: Support student stipends, laptops, and training opportunities.
- $500 – Funds a stipend for a student
- $250 – Provides a laptop for a student

]]><![CDATA[Tech Flex Leaders 2024–2025: 500 Students Building the Future of Tech]]>Wed, 23 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/tech-flex-leaders-2024-2025-500-students-building-the-future-of-tech

America On Tech’s (AOT) 2024–2025 Tech Flex Leaders (TFL) program powered 500 high school 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.

New York City

Los Angeles

Miami

As part of AOT’s decade-long mission to prepare the next generation of technology leaders from underestimated communities, this year’s TFL cohort not only completed advanced coursework in fields like web development, UX design, and data science—but also created real-world tech projects, secured internships, and mapped out college and career pathways that will shape the future of the tech industry.

Jessica Santana, AOT Co-Founder and CEO, shared:
“We are proud to see our students rise. The TFL program isn’t just about tech skills—it’s about building confidence, networks, and opportunities that last.”

Miami TFL graduate, Jennifer Pineiro-Perez, shared at the program graduation that, “TFL wasn’t just about writing code, it helped me find my voice. I gained confidence by speaking up, collaborating with others, and leading authentically, even in challenging moments. I’ve learned that leadership means showing up and asking for help when needed.”

Student Voices from the program:

“I’m now thinking seriously about studying computer science in college.”
“This program gave me a clearer idea of what I want to do in the future.”
“It reshaped my academic path… I’ll major in Computer Engineering and minor in Finance.”

Regional Highlights & Data-Backed Impact

Students Driving Innovation

Each TFL student developed and pitched original tech projects as part of Fall Demo Day and Spring Tech Tracks. Standout projects this year included:

Instagram Redesign for Social Activism (UX Design Track)
Telecom Data Set - Loyalty Predictor (Data Science Track)
Meta Quest 2 Integrated Marketing Plan (Digital Marketing Track)

These projects demonstrated students’ ability to apply their skills to real-world case studies while gaining experience in teamwork, problem-solving, and technical development.

About the Tech Flex Leaders Program

The Tech Flex Leaders (TFL) Program is an immersive, out-of-school time program for juniors and seniors enrolled in high schools in New York City, Los Angeles, or Miami. The program is designed for students interested in technology and now includes a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) to reflect the evolving tech landscape.

Through TFL, students will engage in:

Weekly technical training sessions taught by industry experts, now including introductory AI concepts and tools to build foundational skills in emerging tech.
Professional development workshops that explore identity, leadership, and how to navigate tech careers with confidence.
Career days and mentorship opportunities with professionals from leading technology companies, including those working in AI and other advanced tech fields.

Call To Action

For corporate partners:

Help us shape the future of tech. Become an internship host or program supporter today. Learn more here

For students and educators:

Start your journey in tech with AOT. Apply for the 2025-2026 TFL program in NYC, LA, and Miami. Apply here by August 3rd, 2025

]]><![CDATA[America On Tech Rings the Nasdaq Opening Bell: Celebrating a Decade of Transformative Tech Talent Development]]>Tue, 13 May 2025 13:04:21 GMThttps://www.americaontech.org/news/america-on-tech-rings-the-nasdaq-opening-bell-celebrating-a-decade-of-transformative-tech-talent-development

America On Tech Rings the Nasdaq Opening Bell: Celebrating a Decade of Transformative Tech Talent Development

New York, NY – May 2025 — America On Tech (AOT) proudly rang the opening bell at the Nasdaq MarketSite in Times Square, marking a pivotal moment in its 10-year journey to prepare the next generation of technology leaders from underestimated communities. This national recognition underscores AOT’s impact as a talent accelerator and change agent in the tech education landscape.

Elevating the Next Generation of Innovators

Founded in 2014, AOT has expanded from a 20-student pilot in Brooklyn to a nationwide movement that has served over 5,300 students across New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, and Atlanta. By broadening participation in the tech workforce, AOT is redefining what opportunity and innovation look like in today’s digital economy.
The Nasdaq bell ringing is a testament to the collective power of AOT’s students, alumni, staff, board, volunteers, corporate partners, and funders who believe in this work.

Words from the Founders

Standing alongside students, staff, and board members, AOT Co-Founders Jessica Santana and Evin Robinson shared their reflections on the milestone:
“Ringing the Nasdaq opening bell is a moment of pride for our entire community,” said Jessica Santana, CEO and Co-founder of AOT.
“This moment celebrates our students, our partners, and the ecosystem we’re building together,” added Evin Robinson, President and Co-founder of AOT. “It’s a signal to the world that talent is everywhere—and when given the right access and support, it rises and leads.”

Proven Results with Purpose

AOT continues to deliver measurable outcomes that reinforce its value to the tech workforce pipeline:

5,300+ students served since 2014
1,092 internship placements, with $4.1M+ in cumulative wages paid directly to students
Students trained in fields such as Web Development, Data Science, Product Management, UX Design, Digital Marketing, Cybersecurity, and now Artificial Intelligence (AI)

These achievements demonstrate what’s possible when students receive early exposure, mentorship, real-world learning, and industry-relevant skills.

Looking to the Future

This celebration isn’t a finish line—it’s a springboard. AOT is launching new AI initiatives through its AI Advisory Council, deepening its reach in emerging tech sectors, and growing its Access Tech Internship Program to meet industry demand.

Become a partner and help shape the future of tech talent. Partner with AOT
Support AOT’s mission—your investment transforms lives. Donate today

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