High Tech Kids

High Tech Kids delivers fun, hands-on science, engineering and technology programs and events that inspire Minnesota kids in their formative years. We inspire kids to build confidence, create opportunities, and thrive in the highly technical 21st century.

High Tech Kids programs serve students grades K through 12 in after-school robotics programs and competitions. Each year students research and apply STEM concepts to create innovative solutions to real-world problems.

Guided by volunteer coaches, students work together to solve problems in 100+ hour projects. This dedicated time provides students the opportunity to go deep into concepts that simply can’t be addressed within the confines of a regular school day.

Building the Future of STEM

ACCESS: High Tech Kids is proud to boast more diversity than the state of Minnesota itself. Each year, we invest $37,000 in team scholarships. This funding is integral in achieving our mission to reach as many Minnesota students as possible. There have been significant gains year over year with female students, students of color, and low-income students.

“High Tech Kids has opened my eyes to so many different career opportunities.” —Charlie

SKILLSETS: High Tech Kids evaluate gains in their students. Coaches help to measure significant gains not only in STEM principles but also in soft skills like teamwork and communication. These skillsets prepare our students for college and beyond to ensure that the next generation of STEM innovators are well-rounded individuals.

“High Tech Kids has helped me learn how to deal with stressful situations calmly. Also, my public-speaking skills have gotten so much better.” —Katie

COMMUNITY: High Tech Kids is proud to be supported by Minnesota-based technology companies. Not only do they provide financial support, their employees are strong volunteers and mentors. There are over 2,400 volunteers that help make High Tech Kids mission each year with an over 90 percent retention rate.

“Thanks to High Tech Kids, I can see that I am really lucky to be able to have my community’s support.” —Grant

Programs
High Tech Kids operates three programs serving K-12 students. The programs are: FIRST LEGO League Junior (ages 6-9), FIRST LEGO League (ages 9-14), and FIRST Tech Challenge (ages 13-18).

Students perform research into relevant and timely topics, design and program robots, and present their work at tournaments.Game challenges for students are based on yearly global themes that real-world engineers are solving every day, such as city planning, waste management, etc.

High Tech Kids programs mimic the innovation and problem-solving of adult engineering teams and give students a taste of what becoming a STEM professional entails.