Aspirations in Computing is a talent development pipeline initiative of the National Center for Women & IT. It is designed to increase women’s participation in technology careers by providing encouragement, visibility, community, enrichment opportunities, scholarships, and internships to aspiring technically inclined young women. Over 90 percent of participants now in college report majoring in traditionally male-dominated STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields of computer science & engineering.  Details: www.aspirationsaward.org

Since its inception five years ago, the program has mentored 1319 young women throughout the U.S. and built a database of more than 10,000 young women that self-identify as interested in technology fields.  The program is scaling up significantly and is expected to serve 1000 girls in 2012-13 through 54 local Affiliate programs. Aspirations in Computing participants are reflective of our diverse populations with 59% describing themselves as non-white or of mixed race, and 10% coming from schools with 40% or more students on free and reduced lunch.

Aspirations in Computing provides a 360°-mentoring environment, in which girls receive support, encouragement and opportunities from NCWIT, peers, K-12 educators, academic institutions and industry partners. Eighty-eight (88%) percent of participants now in college report a major or minor in traditionally male-dominated fields of engineering and computer science and participants report;
» increased interest in technology fields,
» increased confidence in their technical potential,
» increased awareness of opportunities for women in technology,
» and decreased apprehension about entering a male-dominated field.

Aspirations in Computing is currently open to high school level young women who are US residents, including US territories and girl residing at US military installations overseas. We hope to expand internationally in the future and if you are interested in partnering, please email .