GovState ACM + UPE Student Chapter Supports Future Tech Leaders Summer Program
A student-led technology outreach initiative connecting GovState volunteers with incoming Bloom and Bloom Trail students through hands-on learning, mentoring, and career exploration.
The GovState ACM + UPE Student Chapter is preparing student volunteers to support the Future Tech Leaders Summer Program, a hands-on technology learning experience created in partnership with Bloom High School and connected to the District 206 Summer Bridge Program.
District 206’s Summer Bridge Program is designed for incoming freshmen at Bloom and Bloom Trail, helping students begin their high school journey with stronger confidence, connection, and readiness. As part of that broader effort, the Future Tech Leaders Summer Program gives students an early opportunity to explore technology, career pathways, and practical digital skills in a supportive learning environment.
About the program
The program will run from June 18 through July 6, 2026, with sessions held at both GovState and Bloom High School. Across 10 program days, students will explore IT support, hardware basics, operating systems, networking, communication and help desk skills, coding, cybersecurity, ethical hacking, password security, career pathways, resume development, and capstone presentations.
The Future Tech Leaders model is intentionally hands-on and beginner-friendly. Students will not only hear about technology careers, but they will also practice real skills through guided activities, collaborative exercises, and applied learning experiences.
Students teaching students
GovState student volunteers will play a central role in this experience. The volunteer orientation makes one message clear: volunteers are not simply assisting with the program. They are serving as instructors, mentors, guides, and role models for students who may be exploring technology for the first time.
For many incoming high school students, early exposure can shape how they see themselves academically and professionally. One successful lab, one thoughtful explanation, or one conversation about a future career path can help a student begin to imagine new possibilities in information technology, cybersecurity, coding, or another computing-related field.
Volunteer roles and leadership
GovState volunteers may serve in several roles, including lead instructor, lab facilitator, career mentor, session coordinator, capstone coach, or day-of coordinator. This flexible structure allows students to contribute based on their availability, strengths, and comfort level while still making a meaningful impact.
The orientation also emphasizes that volunteers do not have to know everything. The program is built as a team, and every volunteer brings value through their knowledge, encouragement, patience, and willingness to help students learn one step at a time.
Professionalism and student support
Because GovState volunteers will be working with high school students, professionalism and clear boundaries are essential. Volunteers are expected to use encouraging and age-appropriate language, keep communication within approved program channels, and bring any student concerns to the program lead or school staff.
These expectations help ensure that the program remains safe, respectful, and organized for all participants. They also give GovState student volunteers an opportunity to practice the same professional judgment, communication, and leadership skills that are expected in the workplace.
The bigger picture
Through this partnership, the GovState ACM + UPE Student Chapter is helping extend technology education beyond the university classroom and into the local community. The initiative reflects the chapter’s commitment to student leadership, career readiness, service, and inclusive access to computing education.
As the program approaches, GovState student volunteers are encouraged to complete the interest survey, review the program calendar, join the Microsoft Teams workspace, and prepare for their assigned sessions. Their participation will help incoming Bloom and Bloom Trail students begin the summer with encouragement, practical skills, and a stronger vision of what is possible in technology.
Students who would like to volunteer for one day or multiple days are encouraged to visit the Future Tech Leaders Volunteer Orientation site and complete the volunteer interest survey.