Press Releases

Middle school girls can explore technology and learn how to program robots through TechGirlz workshop

Oct 17, 2023

Free, interactive event helps girls build skills for future success

OAK PARK, Ill. – Girls in middle school can develop their passion for technology during a free, hands-on TechGirlz workshop, Programming Edison Robots. Powered by CompTIA Spark, the TechGirlz program inspires girls in grades 5-8 to explore the possibilities of technology – giving them new skills, empowering them to solve real-world challenges and opening their minds to new opportunities. Supporting partners of CompTIA Spark help more girls access fun, free workshops that make a meaningful contribution to closing the gender gap in tech.

“In today’s digital age, it’s critical for girls to build digital fluency,” said Gwendolyn Britton, vice president of external relations, CompTIA Spark. “It helps not just to navigate their personal lives, but to open doors into exciting and rewarding careers in tech. Our workshops provide a safe, engaging space where girls can flex their newly acquired digital muscles, explore new skills, and ignite potential passions in the tech field. The workshops aren’t just about learning; they’re about empowering girls to see themselves as future tech leaders, instilling confidence in their digital abilities, and showing them that their ideas and contributions are valuable and much needed in the tech world.”

The workshop will introduce students to Edison, a LEGO compatible robot that’s fun and easy to program. Students will have the opportunity to explore more about robots, learn about Edison and program it using EdScratch, a vertical block-based visual programming language.

Students can also tackle challenges with their new programming skills.

The workshop runs Nov. 2 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and is hosted by the Oak Park Library. All materials will be provided. Click here to register. For more information and to explore other TechGirlz workshops offered, please visit the TechGirlz website here.

The TechGirlz program, powered by CompTIA Spark, has been generously supported by the Spectris Foundation. Last year, the Foundation chose CompTIA Spark as the first U.S. nonprofit recipient of a multi-year grant, allowing the program to reach and inspire more girls in tech.

About CompTIA Spark
CompTIA Spark, a registered 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, is a social impact organization that works to unlock young people's potential in technology. It aims to bring high quality tech education to youth — whatever their background — making tech exciting, accessible and inclusive while building skills and confidence for life. CompTIA Spark is the first U.S. nonprofit to receive a multi-year grant from The Spectris Foundation, the UK-based registered charity that champions access to a high-quality STEM education around the world. CompTIA Spark was founded in 1998 by CompTIA, the nonprofit association for the IT industry and workforce. Learn more at https://comptiaspark.org.

Media Contacts                                              

Cristina De Guia
Marketing Director
CompTIA Spark
cdeguia@comptia.org                                   

Anna Turman
CompTIA
aturman@comptia.org