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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 WorldAI 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:
Inside the TracksData 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 OneKnowing 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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“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.”
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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.
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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
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.
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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.”
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?
This 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.
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.
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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.
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:
Media Contact:
Stanley Smith
National Director of Strategy
[email protected]
www.americaontech.org
“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
Media Contact:
Stanley Smith
National Director of Strategy
[email protected]
www.americaontech.org
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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:
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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.
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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!
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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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)
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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.
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.”
“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.”
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
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