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New York, NY, December 2024--America On Tech (AOT), a national nonprofit dedicated to bridging the technology opportunity gap, is proud to announce the appointment of two distinguished leaders to its Board of Directors: Kelly Cutler, Managing Partner at New Profit, and Nimisha Patel, Chief Financial Officer of Mastercard Technology. These new board members bring a wealth of expertise, passion, and leadership to AOT as the organization continues its mission to empower underserved students to pursue degrees and careers in technology. About the New Board Members: Kelly Cutler Kelly Cutler is a Managing Partner at New Profit, a venture philanthropy organization focused on driving equity and opportunity in education, workforce development, and more. With decades of experience in philanthropy and nonprofit leadership, Kelly’s insights and strategic vision will be invaluable in shaping AOT’s programs and initiatives.  Nimisha Patel Nimisha Patel is the Chief Financial Officer of Mastercard Technology, bringing over 15 years of experience in driving growth, efficiency, and innovation in the technology sector. Previously, she served as Chief Financial Officer for Technology and Innovation at Blackstone, where she managed strategic financial planning, global purchasing, and large-scale multiyear projects. At Mastercard, Nimisha oversees financial operations for the global technology division, advancing the company's mission to connect and empower the digital economy. Her commitment to trust, inclusion, and social responsibility aligns closely with AOT’s mission. Nimisha’s connection to AOT runs deep, as she was a 2023 Innovators and Disruptors Awards honoree and has played a pivotal role in growing AOT’s partnership with Mastercard and Blackstone.  Expanding Leadership for a Greater Impact
AOT Co-Founders Jessica Santana and Evin Robinson shared their excitement about the new appointments: "We are thrilled to welcome Kelly and Nimisha to the Board of Directors. Their leadership and commitment to tech equity will amplify our ability to create transformative opportunities for students across the country." As AOT expands its footprint and programming, these new leaders will provide critical guidance in scaling the organization’s impact and ensuring that students from all backgrounds have access to life-changing opportunities in technology. For more information, please visit www.americaontech.org.
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Over $630,000 Raised to Support AOT Programs December 4, 2024 - America On Tech (AOT) proudly hosted the annual Innovators and Disruptors Awards in Los Angeles and New York City, celebrating leaders who are making significant strides in technology and innovation. These events brought together honorees, sponsors, partners, and special guests for evenings dedicated to networking and recognition of outstanding achievements. Both events collectively raised over $630,000 to support America On Tech's mission is to prepare the next generation of technology leaders from underestimated communities. Los Angeles Innovators and Disruptors Awards The Los Angeles event, held on October 15, 2024, at The JW Marriott L.A. Live, was an inspiring evening of celebration and recognition. Attendees, including prominent figures from the tech and business sectors, gathered to honor outstanding individuals who are breaking barriers in technology and fostering equity within the industry. Honorees:
Company of the Year: Accenture was recognized as the Company of the Year for its exceptional commitment to creating opportunities for underserved communities in technology. Accenture’s robust support of tech education and its focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion have been transformative in helping young people build pathways to successful careers in the tech industry. The event showcased the power of community, with dynamic conversations, memorable moments, and a focus on actionable steps toward a more equitable tech ecosystem. 📸 View the Los Angeles Photo Album 🎥 Watch the Accenture Company of the Year Video New York City Innovators and Disruptors Awards On November 20, 2024, The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers hosted a vibrant celebration of innovation and excellence at the New York City Innovators and Disruptors Awards. The evening brought together honorees, sponsors, and supporters who are committed to creating a more inclusive technology landscape. Honorees:
Company of the Year:
Comcast NBCUniversal received the Company of the Year honor for its unwavering dedication to advancing diversity in technology and its investment in future generations. Comcast NBCUniversal has been a trailblazer in fostering opportunities for underserved communities, aligning perfectly with AOT’s mission of bridging the tech gap. The event celebrated the extraordinary achievements of these leaders and companies, providing a platform for collaboration and dialogue to drive meaningful change in the tech sector. 📸 View the New York City Photo Album 🎥 Watch the Comcast NBCUniversal Company of the Year Video Thank You to Our Sponsors We extend our deepest gratitude to all of our sponsors for their generous support of the Innovators and Disruptors Awards and America On Tech’s mission. Amazon Web Services (AWS Industries), FactSet, Accenture, Comcast NBCUniversal, Mastercard, NBA Foundation, PwC, Mich Razon, Uber, Capgemini, Roscoe’s House of Chicken 'N Waffles, Interpret, Camelback Ventures, TEKsystems, Webster Bank, Goldman Sachs, EY, Kyndryl, Pixelogic, QVEST, and Point Curve, Inc. These events not only celebrated outstanding leaders in tech but also underscored America On Tech’s commitment to expanding access to technology education for underestimated communities. For more information about America On Tech and the Innovators and Disruptors Awards, visit www.americaontech.org and www.innovatorsanddisruptors.com. America on Tech Celebrates 10 Years of Impact, Announces Bold Plans for Expansion and AI Innovation11/25/2024  NEW YORK, Nov. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – America on Tech (AOT) unveiled its 10-Year Impact Report, highlighting a decade of transformative work in preparing underestimated students for technology careers. With a mission to to prepare the next generation of technology leaders from underestimated communities, AOT has reached over 5,300 students across New York City, Los Angeles and South Florida, driving significant increases in tech career pathways and educational attainment.
The report underscores AOT’s contributions to building an equitable future in the tech industry. AOT students pursue technology degrees and careers at rates that far exceed national averages, with 67% of alumni focusing on tech-related majors and 88% pursuing STEM fields more broadly. Program Growth and Economic Impact Since its founding in Brooklyn in 2014, AOT has achieved remarkable results, including:
The organization’s free, culturally relevant programs offer training in high-demand skills, including web development, data science, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence (launching in 2025). Students build professional portfolios, connect with industry mentors, and participate in internships designed to foster career readiness. Jessica Santana, Co-Founder and CEO of AOT, commented: "Over the past decade, we have broken barriers and created opportunities for thousands of talented students. Our work is not just about skills but also empowerment—ensuring students from underestimated communities have a clear path to succeed in the innovation economy." Evin Robinson, Co-Founder and President, added: "Our students are the future leaders of technology. This report reaffirms our commitment to creating an inclusive tech ecosystem by addressing systemic inequities head-on." The Road Ahead: Atlanta Expansion and AI-Focused Programs Building on this legacy, AOT has developed a new 3-year strategic plan (2024-2027) that aims to expand programs and meet the growing demand of AI related skills. As part of this next strategic plan, AOT announced its expansion to Atlanta in 2025 with its TECH360 program. Additionally, AOT will shift toward AI-driven curriculum enhancements. The organization’s flagship TECH360 program will introduce foundational AI concepts, while the Tech Flex Leaders Program will offer students hands-on training in emerging AI tools and machine learning. Evin Robinson, Co-Founder and President of AOT, noted: "AI is transforming every industry. By integrating AI education into our programs, we ensure our students are future-ready and poised to lead in this new era." Opportunities to Shape the Future: Atlanta Regional Advisory Board and AI Advisory Council To support these initiatives, AOT is launching two key leadership opportunities:
"These opportunities allow leaders to directly influence the tech landscape while empowering the next generation," Santana added. About America on Tech America on Tech provides high-quality no-cost tech education, skills development, and workforce readiness to 16-24 year olds in areas such as AI, Web Development, UX Design, Product Management, Digital Marketing, Data Science and Cyber Security. AOT has served 5,000+ students across the country, with 85% of the students in tech jobs or majoring in computer science in college. For more information, visit our website at www.americaontech.org and 10-Year Impact Report. Media Contact: Stanley Smith National Director of Strategy America On Tech [email protected]  New York, NY – November 2024
America On Tech (AOT) is thrilled to announce that Comcast NBCUniversal will be honored as Company of the Year at the 2024 New York City Innovators and Disruptors Awards. This prestigious award recognizes Comcast NBCUniversal’s exceptional commitment to advancing technology education and its pivotal support in developing the next generation of diverse tech talent. Comcast NBCUniversal’s contributions to our students and alumni have been immeasurable. Their support for our TECH360 program—a 3-week summer training program—has empowered high school students across the country. Comcast NBCUniversal has deepened their support by partnering with AOT on the design and delivery of two Alumni Tech Skills Fellowship tracks in Cloud/Cybersecurity and Data Science, ensuring our graduates have the skills needed for today’s job market. Additionally, they have successfully placed AOT alumni in key industry roles, demonstrating a strong commitment to our mission. Jessica Santana, Co-Founder and CEO of America On Tech, expressed her appreciation, stating: “Comcast NBCUniversal’s partnership has been transformative in helping us cultivate a more inclusive tech ecosystem. Their active involvement on our National Board and Regional Advisory Boards not only enhances our strategic direction but also ensures that our vision is aligned with industry leaders who share our commitment to equity and opportunity. By collaborating closely with us, they help shape our programs and initiatives to better meet the needs of our students. Their dedication to mentorship, career readiness, and community engagement exemplifies what it means to be a true partner in this mission. We are thrilled to honor them as our Company of the Year and look forward to continuing our work together to empower the next generation of tech leaders.” “We are honored to receive this recognition from America On Tech and support their mission,” said Jessica Clancy, Senior Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility at NBCUniversal. “We are committed to supporting the next generation of talent, and our partnership with America On Tech empowers us to contribute to meaningful pathways for young people to access opportunities in technology throughout our communities.” We are also excited to announce that Marquise Francis, correspondent for NBC News "Stay Tuned," will serve as the emcee for this year’s awards ceremony. Marquise shares a special connection with AOT Co-Founders Jessica Santana and Evin Robinson, as all three are proud graduates of Syracuse University. This shared alma mater reflects their common commitment to innovation and leadership in their respective fields, making Marquise an ideal host for this important event. The New York City Innovators and Disruptors Awards is an annual event that celebrates the companies and individuals making groundbreaking contributions to technology and driving positive change within the community. The Company of the Year award is the highest honor bestowed upon a company that exemplifies leadership, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the tech sector. This recognition underscores the power of collaboration and shared vision between Comcast NBCUniversal and America On Tech as they work together to inspire and equip the next generation of innovators and disruptors. The partnership is part of Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion initiative to advance digital equity through programs and community partnerships that connect people to the Internet, advance economic mobility, and open doors for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, storytellers, and creators. For more information, please contact: Janine Quijije VP of Development America On Tech [email protected] www.americaontech.org We’re thrilled to announce America On Tech’s (AOT) expansion into Atlanta, a city known for its thriving tech ecosystem and passionate commitment to diversity and inclusion. Starting in summer 2025, AOT will roll out signature high school programs to empower Atlanta’s underestimated high school students with the technical skills and professional networks they need to excel in today’s digital economy. AOT’s programs have made an impact in cities across the country, helping students from diverse backgrounds enter high-growth tech fields. With Atlanta’s tech sector employing over 220,000 professionals—the city offers a promising landscape for AOT to make a lasting difference. However, only 66% of Atlanta’s public high schools currently offer computing courses, signaling a need for initiatives that help bridge this gap. In summer 2025, AOT will launch its TECH360 program, a three-week tech-intensive program for rising juniors and seniors in high school. Then, in the fall, kick off the 12-month Tech Flex Leaders program, offering in-depth training in web development, AI, data science, UX design, cyber security, product management and more. Each program connects students with mentors, provides professional development, and opens doors to paid internships and jobs. By the end of our first three years in Atlanta, we expect to serve 250 students and transform career opportunities for diverse youth. How You Can Get Involved: Join Our Atlanta Regional Advisory Board AOT is establishing an Atlanta Regional Advisory Board to guide our expansion. We’re seeking recommendations for senior leaders in Atlanta’s tech and business communities who are passionate about youth workforce development, tech education, and driving meaningful impact. Advisory board members will play an essential role in shaping AOT’s local programs, fundraising efforts, and partnerships.  If you or someone you know would be a great fit, we invite you to apply or make a referral for our board! Applications open through December 13, 2024.
To learn more and apply visit: americaontech.org/regionalboards Become a Corporate Partner Atlanta-based companies can support AOT by sponsoring students/cohorts, volunteering as guest speakers, providing program space, or hosting interns (in 2026). Together, we can build a pipeline of tech talent that reflects Atlanta’s diversity and potential. Spread the Word Whether you’re a tech professional, educator, or community advocate, there are countless ways to support AOT’s mission. Please help us by sharing our work with others in Atlanta that you think might be interested in partnering. Email [email protected] for more information.  Los Angeles, CA – September 2024 America On Tech (AOT) is proud to announce that Accenture has been awarded the prestigious title of Company of the Year at the 2024 Los Angeles Innovators and Disruptors Awards. This award recognizes Accenture’s exceptional commitment to advancing technology education and its support in developing the next generation of tech talent. Accenture, a global leader in professional services, has been a driving force in supporting America On Tech’s mission to bridge the opportunity gap for underestimated students in Los Angeles and across the country. Their dedication to creating pathways for young people into tech careers has made a profound impact, empowering students to gain the skills and experiences needed to thrive in today’s digital economy. Jessica Santana, Co-Founder and CEO of America On Tech, expressed her gratitude, stating: “Accenture’s partnership has been instrumental in helping us build a more inclusive tech ecosystem. Their commitment to mentorship, innovative programming, and community outreach has enabled us to equip young people with the tools they need to succeed including placing 32 students into paid internships in Los Angeles and hiring 3 AOT alum nationwide. We are thrilled to honor them as our Company of the Year.”
In collaboration with America On Tech, Accenture has provided invaluable resources, including career readiness workshops, mentorship programs, and access to cutting-edge technologies, allowing students to not only learn but innovate in ways that will shape the future of the tech industry. Greg Jensen, Managing Director, North America Media & Entertainment Portfolio Lead at Accenture, commented: “We are deeply honored to receive this award from America On Tech. At Accenture, we believe that diversity of talent and opportunity is essential to driving innovation. We remain committed to fostering a more equitable future by helping young people from all backgrounds access careers in technology and beyond.” The Los Angeles Innovators and Disruptors Awards is an annual event that celebrates companies and individuals who are making groundbreaking contributions to technology and driving positive change within the community. The Company of the Year award is the highest honor given to a company that exemplifies leadership, innovation, and a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the tech industry. This recognition is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision between Accenture and America On Tech, as they work together to inspire and prepare the next generation of innovators and disruptors. For more information about America On Tech and the 2024 Los Angeles Innovators and Disruptors Awards, please visit https://www.innovatorsanddisruptors.com/lareception.html. About America On Tech America On Tech (AOT) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing the next generation of technology leaders by creating pathways for underrepresented students to pursue degrees and careers in technology. Through innovative programs, mentorship, and strategic partnerships, AOT equips students with the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to succeed in today's digital economy. Media Contact: Richelle Stanz Regional Director of Development America On Tech [email protected] www.americaontech.org We are excited to announce the launch of the 2024-2025 Tech Flex Leaders (TFL) Program across New York, Los Angeles, and Miami! This fall, 594 high school students have enrolled in the program, kicking off their journey to becoming future leaders in technology. The program began with in-person orientations hosted at Blackstone in Miami and NYC, and Accenture in Los Angeles, where students were introduced to the exciting opportunities ahead. Through the Tech Flex Leaders Program, students will engage in 160 hours of instruction through weekly lessons gaining essential technology skills led by industry experts. In the fall semester, students learn web development. In the spring, they delve into specialized areas such as Advanced Web Development, UX Design, Digital Marketing, Product Management, or Data Science. Additionally, five professional development days are dedicated to resume building, interview practice, and acquiring professional skills to confidently pursue internships and future careers in technology. We are thrilled to watch these students grow, innovate, and prepare for impactful careers that will shape the future of their communities and the world. The journey has just begun, and we can’t wait to see what this talented group of young leaders will accomplish! “Reaching our 10th year with the Tech Flex Leaders program is a milestone that speaks to the dedication of our students, educators, and partners” said Jessica Santana and Evin Robinson, Co-Founders, America On Tech. “This program has always been about more than just coding—it’s about leadership, innovation, and creating opportunities for the next generation of tech leaders. We’re excited to see how our students will continue to challenge the status quo and make an impact in the tech world.”   America On Tech’s 2024 Access Tech Internship Program Empowers the Next Generation of Tech Leaders9/23/2024 This summer, America On Tech proudly wrapped up its 2024 summer internships, where 212 AOT students were placed in a paid, hands-on technology internship running for six to ten weeks with leading companies. Through this transformative work based learning experience, students applied their technical and professional skills learned from AOT’s programs in a practical work setting. For many students, this was their first taste of a professional work environment. Through their internships, they gained experience in fields ranging from digital marketing and web development to software engineering and data analytics. AOT staff supported many students every step of the way, from application review and interview preparation to hosting a 2-day professional development summit prior to starting their internships which ensures interns not only completed technical tasks but also developed vital workplace skills. Success by the Numbers:
Of Access Tech Interns,
Student Testimonials The impact of the Access Tech Program is best reflected in the voices of the students themselves. Here are a few testimonials: Matthew Velez, Creative Tech Intern at The GIANT Room, shared, "By the end of the internship, I gained new skills like how to use Google Appsheets to sync up invoices for automatic upload. My favorite experience was when I collaborated with my team and the New York Public Library to put together a 700-page report featuring stories created by children around the city.” Overall, my summer internship has left a significant mark on me. It has made me realize the values I look for in a company which is a workplace that embraces my authenticity and one where I can develop personally and professionally.”  Deborah Olaniyi, a Junior Engineer at InTech Foundation said, "Working at InTech has solidified my commitment to making the world of tech a more inclusive place where individuals who look like me can find belonging. This experience has inspired me to seek out more opportunities to work with nonprofits that are dedicated to empowering underrepresented communities. I am passionate about using my skills to create technology that makes a difference in people's lives.”  Internship host, Rina Madhani of Start Lighthouse said that, “We were thrilled to have our interns from the Access Tech program support Start Lighthouse this summer. The interns played a critical role in updating our website, improving content, site navigation, and enhancing the overall user experience. They approached each task with enthusiasm and creativity, and it was clear that the skills they gained will serve them well in their future careers.” Become a Future Internship HostIs your company interested in hosting an AOT intern at potentially no cost to you?
For more information contact: [email protected] to get your company involved today! TECH360 Tri-City Triumph: How NYC, LA, and Miami Are Empowering the Next Generation of Tech Leaders9/23/2024 In 2024, America On Tech’s TECH360 program soared to new heights, enrolling over 570 students across three of America’s most dynamic cities: New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami. The TECH360 Summer Bootcamp is a three-week (50 hours) summer intensive for rising high school juniors and seniors during which they learn the fundamentals of web design and development, gaining knowledge of key coding languages and frameworks including HTML, CSS, and Bootstrap. During the final week of the program, students put their knowledge to the test and work in teams to create and present a final website during the end-of-program Demo Day Competition.Through mentorship, networking, and real-world projects, the TECH360 program not only equips students with technical skills but also opens doors to additional AOT programs, internships, career opportunities, and professional growth. The program was supported by a diverse group of corporate partners, including Accenture, BNY Mellon, Blackstone, Citi, Deutsche Bank, FactSet, Mastercard, NBCUniversal, PwC, and SES. These companies collectively provided 92 volunteers (130 volunteer hours) by hosting Career Days, Demo Days and providing guest speakers. These partnerships greatly enrich the overall experience for students and reinforce the program's commitment to bridging the gap between education and real-world tech opportunities. As the program continues to expand to Atlanta in 2025 and shift curriculum to an “Introduction to AI” course, TECH360 is laying the groundwork for the next generation of tech leaders—one city at a time. Here's a look at the remarkable successes in each city, highlighting how this initiative is transforming the lives of hundreds of students. New York Program Recap: In the heart of NYC, the TECH360 program boasted a high graduation rate, with 220 out of 267 students completing the course—an impressive 82%. These students didn’t just graduate; they excelled. One standout moment was the Mastercard sponsored Demo Day, where students showcased their projects to peers and tech professionals. The first-place project, designed by a team of four, exemplified creativity and technical prowess, solidifying TECH360’s role in nurturing real-world talent. Here are some highlights from this year’s graduating class:
Here's what one of our NY Program Graduates had to say: “Each and every day of the program, I learned more and more about coding and my instructors on a professional and personal level. Learning how to code has really played a part in my future plans. I’m currently creating a website through HTML, CSS and Javascript for an upcoming business my cousin has created. I’m very glad this new skill I've acquired can impact myself and others significantly.” - Joy Yayrah Awagah, NYC High School Junior Los Angeles Program Recap: Los Angeles students brought an air of creativity and collaboration to TECH360. Of the 195 students enrolled into the program, 184 graduated, resulting in an outstanding 94% graduation rate. The city’s strong collaborative spirit was evident during the program, with students expressing their enthusiasm for hands-on learning and teamwork. Students worked on group projects to build websites, with the "Climate Action Now" team winning the demo day competition, standing out for its innovative approach to environmental issues. Here are some highlights from this year’s graduating class:
Here’s what one of our LA Program Peer Mentors had to say: “My favorite part of being a peer mentor with America On Tech was being able to work with an amazing community. By having an amazing community, it made the entire experience amazing and exciting. Moreover, I enjoyed being able to discuss with students and help them create their websites as I have a passion for it.” - Ariana Tiscareno, LA High School Senior Miami Program Recap: In Miami, TECH360 saw 108 students enrolled into the program, with 84 graduating—a testament to the city’s growing tech landscape. Miami’s graduates showed remarkable commitment, with a daily attendance rate of 94% and a 100% project completion rate. The program culminated with the Demo Day sponsored and hosted by Mastercard. The winning team was "Youth Voices Podcast Network," which garnered high praise for creativity and social impact. Here are some highlights from this year’s graduating class:
Here's what one of our Miami Program Graduates had to say: “The tech day event was a highlight, providing valuable insights into the tech industry. This experience reinforced my desire to pursue a computer science degree. To further my tech education and career goals, I applied for the Tech Flex Leaders Program. This next step aligns perfectly with my passion for technology and offers opportunities for deeper learning.” - Anthony Sinchi, Miami High School Senior  America On Tech is proud to announce the appointment of new members to its Regional Advisory Boards in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. These leaders bring diverse expertise and a shared dedication to fostering the next generation of tech innovators. As America On Tech continues to expand its footprint across the nation, the growth of these Regional Advisory Boards is integral in guiding AOT’s initiatives, cultivating partnerships, and strengthening programmatic efforts in their respective regions. The new members of AOT’s Regional Advisory Boards will be instrumental in shaping the future of America On Tech’s regional programs, ensuring that the organization continues to deliver high-quality, impactful technology education to students in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. With their support, AOT is poised to make an even greater difference in the lives of young people across these key regions. New York Regional Advisory Board Member:
Los Angeles Regional Advisory Board Member:
Miami Regional Advisory Board Member:
"Our Regional Advisory Boards were started in 2021 to enhance local engagement and accelerate the organization’s mission." said Jessica Santana and Evin Robinson, Co-Founders, America On Tech. "We are so excited to welcome such amazing talent to the advisory boards. Their collective experience and guidance will be invaluable as we work to scale our programs and provide more students with the tools they need to succeed in the technology sector."
To learn more about our regional boards, reach out to [email protected] for moroe information. |
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