
Techie Workshops
In Akron, the city known for invention, TECH CORPS is igniting a passion for technology among its young residents with an array of empowering programs. “Our Techie Workshops introduce elementary and middle school students to the world of computer science through hands-on learning activities designed to unleash students’ imaginations,” explained TECH CORPS Regional Manager Michelle Moore.
In partnership with Akron Public Schools (APS), TECH CORPS is delivering eleven Techie Workshops directly to Akron elementary and middle school students. The workshops are held on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm from March through May at various APS locations across the city. Students immerse themselves in five engaging technology topics, fostering creativity and innovation through hands-on activities.
Under the guidance of dedicated instructor Alisha Schnupp, students delve into the realm of digital animation, unleashing their inner directors as they utilize cutting-edge modeling software to design and print their own creations. “The students were filled with curiosity and creativity while making their own movies,” said Schnupp. “I was amazed by the quality and detail that was included in just four hours.”
In the 3D Printing Workshop, students explore the possibilities of this groundbreaking technology, designing and fabricating their own structures, gadgets, or characters to take home and cherish.
TECH CORPS offers a diverse range of programming workshops tailored to cater to various interests and skill levels. In Programming: Retro, students breathe new life into classic games like Pong and PacMan using MakeCode Arcade, while in Programming: Scratch, they embark on a coding adventure, transforming colorful blocks into interactive stories, games, and animations. With Programming: Twine, students craft immersive interactive quests where the narrative unfolds based on the player’s choices, allowing their imaginations to run wild.
With spaces still available, parents are encouraged to enroll their elementary or middle school students in these enriching workshops by visiting techcorps.org/apsworkshops.
hackathon
Akron will serve as a host site for TECH CORPS’ annual statewide hackathon competitions this fall. Seventy-five Akron high school students will be able to learn iOS app development using SwiftUI, competing in teams to create apps addressing community challenges.
Mark your calendars for the TECH CORPS hackathon in Akron on Saturday, November 9, 2024, generously sponsored by AT&T. APS high school students eager to participate can register their interest at techcorps.org/hackathon, seizing the chance to showcase their innovation and talent on a statewide platform.
Through these initiatives, TECH CORPS is not only equipping Akron’s youth with invaluable technological skills but also empowering them to become agents of positive change in their community. Join us on this exciting journey of exploration and discovery in the boundless world of technology.