In partnership with TechPoint, we are excited to offer rising junior and senior high school students and recent high schools grads an opportunity to develop their professional skills and determine paths to rewarding STEM careers through our program called Xplore.
As a precursor to the TechPoint Xtern Program, Xplore aims to immerse a select group of high school students in the Indiana tech scene across a stimulating 4-week summer journey. Throughout each week, participants will engage in online work simulations, offering invaluable insights into diverse tech careers. Complementing these simulations, students will participate in weekly micro-internships at four different Indianapolis STEM companies, providing them with firsthand experiences in real-world tech environments. In addition to the Xplore sessions, students will have exclusive access to explore these spaces, interact with onsite STEM experts, and gain a new network of STEM professionals.
All students will:
Have an opportunity to explore STEM-related roles with reflection
Attend an Xtern session
Be coached by industry professionals and build relationships within the tech community of Indiana
Develop professional skills
Earn money for completing the program
Check out this video highlighting the Xplore 2023 program and apply today for the 2024 cohort.
Xplore for College Students
If you are a college student, TechPoint is hosting a remote Xplore program with the mission of helping young college students (first or second year) to determine paths they can take to rewarding careers in Indiana’s digital innovation economy. Take part in work simulations through Forage, with the guidance of the TechPoint team and volunteer tech professionals, to experience what it’s like to work in the tech world, in either technical or business roles. If you are a college student and the world of tech is where you see yourself, then Xplore can help you start on the best path for that journey. Learn more here.
“I was planning to be a STEM major in college but wasn’t sure if it would be right for me. After participating in this program I believe I have a better understanding of what STEM is and all the different opportunities we have in Indy.”
Xplore FAQ
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must be 16 years or older. This program is targeted towards rising Juniors and Seniors and recent grads at Indiana high schools.
Will Xplore be remote or in-person?
The Xplore program will be a hybrid model. Students will meet in person at a location in or near Indianapolis, but we will join virtual sessions as well.
What are the tech-related roles I can learn about in Xplore?
Students will get the opportunity to explore STEM-related roles such as the following: Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Manufacturing, Software Engineering, Product Development
What kind of skill level is expected of me?
We welcome all students of varying skill levels and experiences. This is a career exploration program so it’s meant for anyone to have a chance to explore careers they think they may be interested in.
What is a micro-internship?
A micro-internship is project-based commitment with a company that involves a much shorter amount of time than a traditional internship.
Is there a cost to participate?
Not at all! You actually get paid to participate!
What is the time commitment for Xplore?
Xplore will begin on Monday, June 3rd and end on Friday, June 28th. You should plan to spend approximately 5-10 hours per week working on work simulations, and participating in meetings and panels. This program is meant to be a part-time experience so it’s perfect for anyone taking online classes, working a summer job, or bored at home!
What is the timeline for applying to Xplore?
Applications will open on March 1, 2024 with the start of the program in Summer 2024.
Why Professional Preparedness Matters
TechPoint Foundation for Youth is focused on ensuring our students are prepared for their next steps in life, whether they attend college, a trade school, or pursue a career in STEM. We are here to connect students from the classroom to careers.
Some of the benefits of successful mentoring include, helping eliminate young students’ stereotypes about who can succeed in STEM, clarifying the results of STEM studies and careers, and supporting improvements in social, emotional, and behavioral health (Afterschool Matters, Making and Mentors).
Mentoring improves attitudes and decreases anxiety around STEM subjects. Mentoring also improves STEM-related grades/test scores and increases enrollment and persistence in post-secondary STEM courses.
How to Get Involved
If you are currently a rising Junior or Senior or graduating this year, apply to participate in the Xplore program by April 10, 2024. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to reach out to Director of Programs, Jamie Inskeep at jamie@techpointyouth.org