For the first time this year, TechGirls from Central Asia will join the exchange program, expanding the reach of the program to empower future generations in the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields.
Implemented by Legacy International, the four-week program offers the TechGirls endless opportunities to develop their skillsets and reach their full potential in the technology industry.
Along with coding instruction, interactive labs, and professional development activities, the central focus of the program is on the twelve-day intensive coding camp at Virginia Tech. The girls will learn how to code in Java, take cyber security classes, and collaborate with American secondary school girls. At the end of their learning experience, the TechGirls will present their capstone projects on a variety of STEM topics to State Department officers, representatives of their home embassies, job shadow hosts, among others. .
Outside of the classroom, the TechGirls will be able to engage with professionals in the public and private sectors. A job shadow day will allow them to work with leaders from organizations such as AT&T, NPR, Vox Media, and the Federal Communications Commission. Site visits to Capitol Hill reflect the role of technology and the power of women in STEM in creating legislation. The TechGirls also will have the opportunity to give back to local communities through community service projects focused on the environment and vulnerable populations.
For TechGirls, their exchange doesn’t end after their four weeks in the United States. With access to over 186 TechGirl alumnae and their TechWomen mentors from the duration of their program, the TechGirls will have opportunities to connect with their network in their communities through TechWomen-TechGirls Clubs.
