Thank you to everyone who supported the Minnesota IT Center of Excellence as the Minnesota Aspirations Affiliate.
As of October 2023, MnTech will be the Minnesota Affiliate for Aspirations.
MnTech is now the Minnesota Affiliate for Aspirations Women in Computing
The Minnesota IT Center of Excellence (ITCOE) has proudly led as the Minnesota Affiliate for Aspirations for the past 12 years. ITCOE is handing off the affiliation to Minnesota Technology Associations (MnTech), an organization passionate about women coming into and succeeding in computing and STEM.
MnTech’s partnership with ITCOE to support Aspirations started this year and they’ve given tremendous support through advocacy, sponsorship, and providing 10 scholarships to students.
Leaders at MnTech, led by Jeff Tollefson, will continue to strengthen and further build a strong Aspirations program to support and champion future women leaders. ITCOE is thrilled for MnTech as the next Minnesota Affiliate for Aspirations, Women in Computing.
Award Application Dates to Be Aware Of:
- September 1st: Aspirations in Computing High School Applications Open.
- November 6th: Aspirations in Computing High School Applications Close.
Q&A Webinar
1st time HS Applicants help. Join the webinar to learn more about applying for Aspirations. Register Here.
- Thursday, Oct. 5, 5:30pm PT / 6:30pm MT / 7:30pm CT / 8:30pm ET
- Tuesday, Oct. 17, 3pm PT / 4pm MT / 5pm CT / 6pm ET
- Thursday, November 2nd – 6:00 p.m. PT / 7:00 p.m. MT / 8:00 p.m. CT / 9:00 p.m. ET
What should I include on my application?
- Preview the application before applying
- Review this file to help you gather all of the information you will need to complete your award application.
***Note: If in doubt about your readiness to be recognized, simply apply. You may be surprised with the outcome!
Keep in mind, all applicants are eligible and by applying you will be invited to participate in a variety of technology activities offered in the months ahead.
9th-12th grade women, genderqueer, or non-binary students can apply for the Award for Aspirations in Computing (AiC) for their computing-related achievements and interests.
Award recipients are selected based on their aptitude and aspirations in technology and computing. Students demonstrate this by their computing experience, computing-related activities, leadership experience, tenacity in the face of barriers to access, and their future plans.
Since the program’s inception over 600 students have been selected as Minnesota honorees; gaining access to paid internships, job shadow experiences, virtual mentor matches, skill building events, prizes, and much more! In addition, Minnesota Aspirations Award applicants are automatically entered into the national NCWIT Aspirations Award competition.
Congratulation to all of the 2023 Minnesota Affiliate Winners, Honorable Mentions, and Rising Stars.
Who may apply?
Students enrolled in Minnesota schools in grades 9-12 who identify as women, genderqueer, or non-binary.
Why Apply?
This award celebrates and recognizes your leadership ability and academic history, along with your computing-related interests, aspirations and achievements. Aside from access to internships, job shadow experiences, and mentor matches, as well as connections to employers and prizes, winning this award can be a life-transforming experience.
Additional Prizes
Award Recipients are eligible for additional prizes, including local and state media attention, cash rewards, and attendance at a Rising Star, Certificate of Distinction, or Top-Tier Honoree Ceremony.