Empowering Tomorrow’s Tech Leaders Today
Minnesota Aspirations in Computing (MnAiC) is the flagship offering of the Minnesota Technology Foundation and Official State Affiliate of the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) Aspirations in Computing program.
About
The Minnesota Aspirations in Computing (MnAiC) program is dedicated to inspiring high school students in grades 9-12 who identify as women, trans women, genderqueer, or nonbinary. Each year, we honor over 70+ exceptional students at our spring Top-Tier and Rising Star ceremonies in collaboration with our corporate, community, and educational partners. Our awards celebrate students’ computing achievements, enthusiasm for technology, leadership, community involvement, and resilience. This recognition not only acknowledges their accomplishments but also fuels their ongoing engagement in STEM, enhances their confidence, and advances diversity in the tech industry. Beyond the accolades, MnAiC provides a range of impactful opportunities throughout the year. Our program offers hands-on tech experiences, career exploration and job shadowing, personalized mentorship, professional development, college scholarships, and paid internships. By combining recognition with these valuable resources, we are committed to supporting our honorees as they continue their journey in STEM education and pursue successful careers in technology.
Impact
Since 2012, the program has recognized and supported over 1,400 students
465
Rising Star Honorees
370
Top State Honorees
28
College Scholarships
80
National Honorees
260
Job Shadow Matches
122
Summer Paid Internships
151
Mentor Matches
Apply to Become a 2024-2025 MnAiC Honoree
Eligibility and Application:
Who Should Apply?
Minnesota high school students in grades 9-12 who identify as women, trans women, genderqueer, or nonbinary.
Why Apply?
- Get Recognized: Be honored at the Top-Tier and Rising Star ceremonies in Spring 2025 as one of the 70+ recipients.
- Explore Your Path: Access hands-on tech experiences, job shadowing, and paid internships with leading companies.
- Grow Your Skills: Benefit from personalized mentorship and professional development workshops to boost your abilities and confidence.
- Build Connections: Connect with a dynamic network of peers and industry leaders committed to supporting your tech journey.
- College Scholarships: Honorees who meet the eligibility requirements can apply for MnAiC college scholarships.
- Future Opportunities: Receive ongoing support, even if you’re not recognized this year.
- High Success Rate: Historically, 80% of applicants receive some form of recognition!
Key Dates:
- Application Opens: September 1, 2024
- Application Deadline: November 8, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET
How to Apply:
- Visit the NCWIT Aspirations in Computing website (Aspirations.org).
- If you don’t have an account already, create a profile on the site.
- Follow the instructions and complete the required prompts and questions.
- Submit your application.
This application will cover both state and national awards. Those determined to be 2024-2025 honorees will receive formal notifications in mid-February, and some program offerings will start in January for all applicants.
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Applications close on November 08, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. CT
Support MnAiC & Become a Sponsor
Why Sponsor?
By sponsoring the Minnesota Aspirations in Computing (MnAiC) program, your generosity and partnership will be vital in bringing our program offerings to life, providing essential opportunities for Minnesota’s future tech leaders, and advancing diversity in the industry. As a sponsor, you’ll also enjoy exclusive access to our Spring Top-Tier Award ceremony, prominent visibility in our program materials and on our website, and priority for offering internships to our talented honorees. We’re excited about the impact we can achieve together—discover more about sponsorship opportunities in our PDF.
2023-2024 Aspirations in Computing Sponsors
Become an Internship Provider
Becoming a Minnesota Aspirations in Computing (MnAiC) internship provider goes beyond offering a summer job—it’s a chance to engage with exceptional honorees and promote diversity within the tech industry by giving underrepresented students the opportunity to apply their knowledge and develop new skills. By partnering with MnAiC, your company will connect with some of the brightest, most motivated students who’ll undoubtedly bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to your team. Internships can be in-person, virtual, or hybrid, depending on your needs and the agreement with your intern. MnAiC program leaders will ensure a seamless experience, guiding the interview process so you can select the ideal honoree(s), supporting onboarding, and organizing a kickoff event to align all providers. The program culminates in an end-of-summer celebration where honorees showcase their accomplishments, highlighting the tangible impact of your support.
2023-2024 Internship Providers
Upcoming Program & Events
Learn more about the new Technology Exploration Award, including eligibility, how to get started, and how to apply. View more here.
Apply for Internships
Internship offerings and applications will open in mid-February once all internship providers are confirmed. Honorees and parents will receive notifications to revisit this page at that time, allowing students to complete their applications and secure valuable internship opportunities.
MentorMash
In March, we’ll share details about MentorMash, where students are paired with tech professionals for virtual mentorship. Mentors and mentees will meet four times for 45-minute sessions each throughout the summer, from Monday, June 16th to Friday, August 15th. This program offers valuable learning experiences and guidance. Stay tuned for how to join as a mentor or mentee.
Job Shadows
Information about MnAiC Job Shadows will be available in March. This program connects students with tech professionals for half- or full-day shadowing opportunities. Look out for details soon on participating as a provider or a student.
