 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
0 Comments
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.  America On Tech’s Demo Day is a celebration of achievement that showcases and brings to life the projects of our students to an audience of fellow students, student families, and a greater community of business and technology professionals, passionate about creating pathways for the next generation of innovators. In August 2024, Mastercard sponsored and hosted two TECH360 Program Graduation and Demo Days in Miami and New York City. Below is a recap of each event.
 New York, NY – July 1, 2024 – America On Tech (AOT) is thrilled to announce the recipients of the inaugural Ray Estevez Scholarship for Technology Leaders. This scholarship, designed to support and celebrate future leaders in technology, has been awarded to four outstanding AOT students: Mashai Allard, Victor Hernandez, Sollange Blanco, and Arleene Charles. Each recipient will receive a $2,500 scholarship to be used for tuition, books, or technology to support their education.
America On Tech Joins a16z’s Cultural Leadership Fund Nonprofit Program as New Ecosystem Partner5/29/2024  [New York, NY, May 29, 2024] - America On Tech (AOT) proudly announces its selection as a new ecosystem partner of a16z’s Cultural Leadership Fund (CLF). AOT joins this group of nonprofit organizations dedicated to advancing African Americans in the technology industry. CLF’s support underscores AOT’s unwavering dedication to creating pathways for Black communities to thrive in tech.
The support from CLF will enable America On Tech to further scale its programs, reach more students from underserved communities, and deepen its impact on the representation of African Americans in tech.  Funding Will Empower Innovation, Cultivate Diversity and Foster Inclusive Initiatives to Elevate Miami’s Tech Landscape MIAMI, DECEMBER 6, 2023 – America On Tech-Miami has received a $250,000 commitment from JPMorgan Chase to provide Black, Latino and Hispanic high school students in Miami-Dade County with greater access to tech-focused education and skills. This philanthropic capital, which is part of JPMorgan Chase’s five-year, $10 million commitment to Tech Equity Miami announced in 2022, will play a vital role in bridging the digital divide and create pathways for underserved students to pursue careers in the tech industry. As Miami rapidly establishes itself as a global tech hub, increasing tech training for underserved and diverse youth will help create a larger and more diverse talent pool locally while also ensuring more people are able to capitalize on this growing industry. This commitment addresses the need to provide students with opportunities to engage meaningfully with technology, develop computational skills and explore careers in computer science.  “At JPMorgan Chase, we recognize the transformative power of education and the importance of empowering students with the essential skills for success in the digital age,” said Maria Escorcia, Southeast region executive of Global Philanthropy at JPMorgan Chase. “Our collaboration with America on Tech-Miami reaffirms our firm’s commitment to developing a diverse and talented workforce that will drive innovation, foster inclusive economic growth and shape the future of Miami’s technology landscape.” Through this investment, America on Tech-Miami, will be able to expand its programming to provide tech education, skills development and workplace preparation for Miami’s Black, Latino and Hispanic youth, making Miami’s growing tech industry more inclusive and accessible. Specifically, America on Tech-Miami will provide high-quality, no-cost programs in web development, UX design, product management, digital marketing, data science and cyber security. Participating students will also have access to professional development resources such as mentorship, resume building, interview prep, exposure to hiring managers, and internship and job placements.  "We are thrilled to have the support of JPMorgan Chase to expand our impact in Miami,” America On Tech Co-Founders, Jessica Santana and Evin Robinson, stated. “This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for underserved students to thrive in the technology sector. JPMorgan Chase's generous commitment will significantly enhance our ability to provide essential resources and support to our students and help them excel in Miami’s thriving tech industry."  America on Tech-Miami’s pilot program, TECH360, launched in 2022 and reached 176 Miami-Dade County Public School students. During this three-week intensive program, students learned the fundamentals of web design. Students then advance to Tech Flex Leaders, a year-long Out of School Time program, during which they learn web development, master tech programs, and choose a tech track (UX design, product management, digital marketing data science, or advanced web development) to gain a targeted tech skill set prior to engaging in a work-based learning tech internship.  America On Tech recently hosted its Miami Future Innovators Night at Telemundo Center, where the organization celebrated this commitment. The event included dynamic student presentations and a panel discussion centered on digital equity in the future of work with the following leaders:
For more information on America On Tech - Miami, visit www.americaontech.org. About America On Tech America On Tech (AOT) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preparing the next generation of technology leaders by creating pathways into degrees and careers in technology. AOT's programs combine technical training with industry exposure, mentoring, and networking opportunities, empowering students with the skills, confidence, and network needed to achieve their dreams. For more information, visit www.americaontech.org. JPMorgan Chase Media Contact: Allison Reed: [email protected] America On Tech Media Contact: Lilly McNicholas - [email protected]  ____ NEWS PROVIDED BY AMERICA ON TECH NOVEMBER 1, 2023 Today America On Tech (AOT), the premiere national organization working to create career pathways for underestimated communities into technology and innovation, announced Sharon Epperson, CNBC Senior Personal Finance Correspondent, for the 2023 Innovators and Disruptors Awards in New York City. The Innovators and Disruptors Awards celebrates the outstanding achievements of leaders in technology. Award winners are diverse founders and professionals from some of the world's most recognized companies and fastest growing startups who are leaving a measurable impact on the industry and in their respective fields of work. “The 2023 Innovators and Disruptors Awards is truly a needed platform to ensure we are elevating the stories and achievements of professionals who are leaving a legacy in their fields and communities. This year’s honorees exemplify excellence and impact --- from media to technology,” said Jessica Santana and Evin Robinson, the co-founders of America On Tech. The Innovators and Disruptors Awards will take place on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at Current Chelsea Piers. The event will be hosted from 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. 100% of proceeds generated will go towards supporting AOT's student programs throughout the year. 2023 HONOREES
To keep up with the conversation:
About America On Tech America On Tech (AOT) is a national organization on a mission to create pathways for underestimated students to thrive in technology and innovation. Since inception, AOT has worked with over 4,500 students across the country and 85% of alumni are either in technology jobs or on computer science / information systems programs. AOT’s work has been featured in major media outlets including Forbes, CNN, Huffington Post, TechCrunch and PBS. CONTACT: IDA Event Team, [email protected] Related Links: https://www.innovatorsanddisruptors.com/ http://americaontech.org |
Archives
September 2024
Categories |
RSS Feed