Programs: High School Program

The application period for the 2023 High School Tech Immersion Program is now closed.

 

PROGRAMS

High School Tech Immersion Program

About the Program

The techNL High School Tech Immersion Program places grade 10-12 students from across Newfoundland and Labrador in technical and business roles with local technology companies during the summer. Through this program, students are exposed to new skills, networks, and career possibilities with the aim of inspiring youth to complete related post-secondary education and seek employment in the province’s technology sector. 

Running July 10 to August 18, 2023, the program has three main elements: on-the-job experience, training, and networking. 

On-the-Job experience: Students are matched in teams with local tech and tech-enabled companies (sponsors) to complete projects. While their work will be determined by and specific to their sponsor, generally we expect them to undertake meaningful work appropriate to skill-level, job-shadowing, and generally learning about their sponsor company, the industry, and what a career in tech is really like. 

Training: Students receive a significant amount of training through this program including a part-time virtual skills bootcamp, business training, and orientation to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace. More details on training specifics will be released in the coming weeks but students can expect to learn an in-demand skill, complete projects, and earn valuable training for future schooling and career exploration.  

Networking: techNL will host events for students to learn about the local tech ecosystem and support organizations, meet like-minded individuals, and build connections with local employers.  

 

Whether you are a student who is still considering your post-secondary options or are feeling unsure about what a tech career can look like for you- this program promises to provide you with a unique experience where you will gain insight and build confidence about your future.

Employers in this program can expect an impactful summer experience with passionate, inspiring, and eager students who can help you complete real projects, promote your company, meet potential future-hires, and build leadership skills within your organization. 

 

Program Objectives

  1. Increase awareness of the variety of careers within the tech sector.
  2. Help improve the overall participation and diversity within the tech sector.
  3. Help students improve technical and business skills and build networks.
  4. Help companies complete projects, improve processes, and increase efficiency.
  5. Help companies become more innovative by way of new perspectives and fresh energy.

2021 participants Alex, Sophia, and Luke learned so much at PolyUnity

Student Testimonial:

I was placed at my company for the summer, and I couldn’t believe how quickly it went; I wish I could have stayed longer! They are an important company to work with and the team was so welcoming and seemed to enjoy having me there. I collaborated with different teams and usually would spend some part of the day shadowing a colleague, attending meetings, and working with people to fix bugs, do quality assurance testing, and code a new version of the product. When I needed help they were there to answer my questions, and I am walking away with new skills in Javascript and GitHub and I know more about how a software team works. I also enjoyed the learning opportunity offered through Keyin College where I learned more about Python coding. Why did I participate? I’ve always had an interest in technology and I wanted to see what it was like to work in the sector. Others should participate because you can learn so much from experienced professionals and discover new interests!

“I’m just proud of how much I’ve learned and how far I’ve
come. And, I’m a lot more confident going into
engineering next year.”

Student, age 17

Employer Testimonial:

Our company employed two remote students in 2022. They joined our web development team and spent time researching topics related to our product. They also helped research tactics to promote diversity, equity and inclusion within our company and product. Each student brought their own strengths to the table; one was very good at communicating their findings, and the other was extremely efficient. Both showed eagerness, passion, enthusiasm and dedication. These strengths came in handy because both students worked remotely and that requires dedication to communication and enthusiasm for their work. Supporting opportunities for rural students is important to us as they are often less aware of programs and pathways available to them. Why did we participate? We are passionate about inspiring young minds and recognize how we can be inspired reciprocally. Students come with new insights and new ideas, their voice takes you outside the box, and you will be surprised at their motivation to learn.

“It’s so invigorating, inspiring, and still wonderfully grounding to work with young minds!”

– 2022 Employer

  • 2021 participant Luke gives a skill presentation at PolyUnity
More Information for Sponsors

Industry Applications are now closed for the 2023 program. 

 

What can the High School Tech Immersion Program do for your company? 

Complete Projects: During the past two years of the program our high school interns have demonstrated impressive skill, dedication, and an eagerness to learn. For year three of the program we hope to harness those assets into Student Tech Teams who can help your company accomplish real and meaningful projects.  

Help you See the Future: Our high school interns have gone on to attend post-secondary programs such as Engineering, Business, Software Development, Computer Science, and more where they will seek work terms and full-time positions. What better way to get to know a future hire than working with them as a high school student? 

Gain Company Ambassadors: Our past interns have stated that after the program they feel they have a true understanding of the company they worked for. They share their experience with the peers, families, and networks which can market your service or promote your company as an employer. 

Student Tech Teams consist of 4 students who will be matched to your company based on interest, experience, and ability. Student Tech Teams will work directly with employers for 6 weeks of the summer and complete a project of the employer’s choosing in the area of web/software development, engineering, business, and/or customer success. 

Why should I take part?
Because you’re committed to fostering a love of tech in the young people of our province! And also because:  

  • Ideas and innovation can come from anywhere, including high school students. 
  • Young people are a breath of fresh air, bringing big energy and excitement to your team. 
  • Engaging with talented, interested young people is a great “longtail” recruiting strategy.  
  • Every program participant becomes an ambassador for your company and the tech sector amongst their friends and schoolmates.  
  • Initiatives like this help build leadership among your teams and within your organization.  
  • Building the talent pipeline is everyone’s responsibility. 

     Who are the students and how are they selected to take part?  

    Participants are Grade 10, 11 and 12 students from all over Newfoundland and Labrador. They have independently sought out and applied to this program, thereby showing their level of interest. Some have a very high level of technical acumen and already know they want a career in tech, while others less experienced but very keen to find out if a career in tech is right for them.  

    Each application is reviewed by a committee of techNL staff. Based on a pre-established rubric, individuals are screened in or out, given a score, and placed into categories based on interests. High scoring individuals within each category are then reviewed for alignment with the available program Sponsor spaces. Sponsors are provided with the applications of several students for review and may request a virtual “fit” call. The final placement decision is made by the Sponsor. 

    techNL is committed to increasing diversity and inclusion in the tech sector by empowering young women and other equity-deserving groups to take part in this program. We will be working with an EDI consultant to ensure program success.  

    How is the program structured? 

    The program will run from July 10-Aug 18, 2023. The program is a work-integrated learning experience meaning that during the workweek students will spend 15 hours in technical training administered by a techNL partner and 20 hours working with their sponsor company. Additional training sessions and networking events may be offered to students throughout the program as well. 

    The program is structured as a sponsorship model whereby employers pay a sponsorship fee ($800) upfront to techNL to cover 25% of student wages. Payroll is administered by techNL. 

    What can students do? Students can take part in a variety of projects and tasks. In the past students have: 

    • Worked on social media projects, search engine marketing, website updates, and new market research. 
    • Been a part of product development, QA testing, and maintenance. 
    • Completed basic data input, analytics, and visualization. 
    • Helped with app development and design. 
    • Worked on robotics, coding, and image simulations. 
    • Researched new software and tools. 
    • Completed HR-related resources and improved office efficiency.  
    • Completed training courses like Google certifications and Salesforce. 

      Frequently Asked Questions 

      1. Is the program virtual or in-person? This is at the employer’s discretion. It is important to provide opportunities to students who live outside the metro region, so we hope to have a balance of the two. 
      2. What happens if the student calls in sick or requests vacation? This is at the Sponsor’s discretion; however, we make it clear to students that they are expected to attend all days of the program.  
      3. Is this an internship? This program is weighted such that students spend about half their time learning and half with their Sponsors. Thus, a better term is work-integrated learning. What is similar to an internship is that Sponsors provide experience in and exposure to the real world of tech careers. You can think of it as “internship lite”.  
      4. What does the Sponsorship fee cover exactly? Your Sponsorship covers the entirety of the program for your student, orientation, training, and work included. You will receive value in the form of meaningful work done by your student in return for your financial contribution, but Sponsorship is also about providing a young person with a holistic, immersive introduction to the sector with the intent of encouraging them to choose a career in tech.  
        More Information for Students

        We know you may have a lot of questions! Please read the following to gain a better understanding of the program.  

        What would I do? Student work is determined by the sponsor and can include a variety of projects and tasks. Generally, we break the work into 4 broad categories: Software Development, Engineering, Sales and Marketing, and Customer Success.  

        In the past students have: 

        • Worked on social media projects, search engine marketing, website updates, and new market research. 
        • Been a part of product development, QA testing, and maintenance. 
        • Completed basic data input, analytics, and visualization. 
        • Helped with app development and design. 
        • Worked on robotics, coding, and image simulations. 
        • Researched new software and tools. 
        • Completed HR-related resources and improved office efficiency.  
        • Completed training courses like Google certifications and Salesforce. 

          Do I need to live in the St. John’s-metro region? 

          No. We encourage students from all over Newfoundland and Labrador to participate. Training will be conducted virtually, and some work placements will be available virtually.  

          Do I need to know how to code?  

          No. In fact, you do not need to have any tech experience to take part in this program, just a keen interest in learning about a career in the tech industry. 

          If I am selected, what is expected of me?
          Foremost, you are expected to attend and engage in the program each day for the full six weeks. Students will not be granted vacation days within this period. You will be expected to complete work to the best of your ability assigned both in training and on-the-job. You will act in a respectful, inclusive, and accountable manner. You will be expected to complete pre- and post-surveys about your experience in the program and communicate with techNL on a regular basis. Most importantly, you’ll also be expected to have fun, learn, and enjoy your summer!  

          Will I be paid?  

          Yes. You will be paid at a rate of $15 per hour, for 35 hours each week, for six weeks.  

          When does the program start and finish? 

          The program begins on July 10 and runs until Aug 18. You will be expected to attend a training session prior to the start of the program and expected to complete an exit survey.  

          Who is eligible?

          • Current Grade 10, 11, and 12 students (as of May 1, 2023).
          • You are eligible to work in Newfoundland and Labrador.

          What is the selection process? 

          Each application is reviewed by a committee of techNL staff. Priortity will be given to students who are undecided but keenly curious about a tech career. We aim to engage with students from all backgrounds with a focus on under-represented groups in STEM (individuals who identify as: female and gender-diverse, 2SLGBTQ+, Indigenous, visual minority, and rural citizens).

          Based on a pre-established rubric, individuals are screened in or out, given a score, and placed into categories based on interests. High scoring individuals within each category are then reviewed for alignment with the available program Sponsor spaces. Sponsors are provided with the applications of several students for review and may request a virtual “fit” call. The final placement decision is made by the Sponsor. 

          How do I apply?
          If you are currently a student in Grade 10, 11, or 12 (as of May 1, 2023) and a student in Newfoundland and Labrador just complete an online application. The application form can be found on here! The closing date for applications is May 31, 2023.

          When will I find out if I’ve been selected?  

          techNL will let all applicants know the status of their application by June 16, 2023. 

          The application period for the 2023 High School Tech Immersion Program is now closed.

           

          Previous Information Sessions

          techNL hosted two employer-focused information sessions for the 2023 High School Tech Immersion Program. If you were unable to attend the sessions, the recordings can be found here.

          January 31st, 2023

          March 15th, 2023

          2022 Employers

          235 Water Street, Suite 600

          St. John’s, NL A1C 1B6

          Phone 709.772.8324
          Fax 709.757.6284
          Email info@technl.ca

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