(Brownsville • September 25, 2024) – Brownsville ISD middle school students who are in at-risk situations will become the next generation of technology leaders through an innovative project called IDRA Youth TechXperts. Through this in-school program, eighth-grade students will gain cutting-edge STEM skills while also fostering leadership, inclusivity and real-world experience.
“We’re excited to partner with the Brownsville school district and industry leaders to prepare middle schoolers for today’s fastest-growing careers,” said IDRA Chief Technology Strategist Michelle Vega. “These Youth TechXperts will have a transformative experience that changes how they see themselves and their futures in technology and leadership.”
Despite increased investments in technology initiatives for youth, participation rates in IT fields for students of color, girls, and emergent bilingual students remain alarmingly low. IDRA Youth TechXperts is our answer to this challenge, built on a solid foundation of research that shows students thrive when they can perform, be recognized and cultivate a deep interest in computer science.
Today’s fastest-growing careers are tech-driven, from healthcare to telecommunications to aerospace. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 67% of all new jobs in STEM are in computing, and it projects that computer science research jobs alone will increase 19% by 2026. In Brownsville areas, adult employment trends in computer-related fields fall well below the national average of 7%. In Brownsville, fewer than 1% of adults work in computer-related fields.
After the planning year in 2024-25, the class will launch for students in Brownsville ISD in 2025-26. The project is made possible by the generous support of Valley Baptist Legacy Foundation.
IDRA is also available to partner with other school districts interested in sponsoring the program in their schools.
“This is not just an elective course,” Ms. Vega added. “It’s a launchpad into the future of technology and leadership for our youth, especially those from underserved and underrepresented backgrounds.”
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