TechPoint Youth is excited to offer rising junior and senior high school students and recent high schools grads an opportunity to develop their professional skills and determine paths to rewarding STEM careers through our program called Xplore.

As a precursor to the TechPoint Xtern Program, Xplore aims to immerse a select group of high school students in the Indiana tech scene across a stimulating 4-week summer journey. Throughout each week, participants will engage in online work simulations, offering invaluable insights into diverse tech careers. Complementing these simulations, students will participate in weekly micro-internships at four different Indianapolis STEM companies, providing them with firsthand experiences in real-world tech environments. In addition to the Xplore sessions, students will have exclusive access to explore these spaces, interact with onsite STEM experts, and gain a new network of STEM professionals.

All students will: 

  • Have an opportunity to explore STEM-related roles with reflection

  • Attend an Xtern session

  • Be coached by industry professionals and build relationships within the tech community of Indiana

  • Develop professional skills

  • Earn money for completing the program

Check out this video highlighting the Xplore 2023 program and apply today for the 2025 cohort.

 
 
“I was planning to be a STEM major in college but wasn’t sure if it would be right for me. After participating in this program I believe I have a better understanding of what STEM is and all the different opportunities we have in Indy.”
— Junior, IPS Student

Xplore FAQ

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be 16 years or older. This program is targeted towards rising Juniors and Seniors and recent grads at Indiana high schools.

Will Xplore be remote or in-person?

The Xplore program will be a hybrid model. Students will meet in person at a location in or near Indianapolis, but we will join virtual sessions as well.

What are the tech-related roles I can learn about in Xplore?

Students will get the opportunity to explore STEM-related roles such as the following: Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Manufacturing, Software Engineering, Product Development

What kind of skill level is expected of me?

We welcome all students of varying skill levels and experiences. This is a career exploration program so it’s meant for anyone to have a chance to explore careers they think they may be interested in.

What is a micro-internship?

A micro-internship is project-based commitment with a company that involves a much shorter amount of time than a traditional internship.

Is there a cost to participate?

Not at all! You actually get paid to participate!

What is the time commitment for Xplore?

Xplore will begin in early June and last 2 weeks . You should plan to spend approximately 5-10 hours per week working on work simulations, and participating in meetings and panels. This program is meant to be a part-time experience so it’s perfect for anyone taking online classes, working a summer job, or bored at home!

What is the timeline for applying to Xplore?

Applications will open on March 1, 2025 with the start of the program in Summer 2025.

Why Professional Preparedness Matters

TechPoint Foundation for Youth is focused on ensuring our students are prepared for their next steps in life, whether they attend college, a trade school, or pursue a career in STEM. We are here to connect students from the classroom to careers. 

Some of the benefits of successful mentoring include, helping eliminate young students’ stereotypes about who can succeed in STEM, clarifying the results of  STEM studies and careers, and supporting improvements in social, emotional, and behavioral health (Afterschool Matters, Making and Mentors).

Mentoring improves attitudes and decreases anxiety around STEM subjects. Mentoring also improves STEM-related grades/test scores and increases enrollment and persistence in post-secondary STEM courses. 

How to Get Involved

Applications are now open! If you have any questions don’t hesitate to reach out to Director of Programs, Jamie Inskeep at jamie@techpointyouth.org