TECHSTERS 2018

Registration is now closed.

Using best practices and lessons learned from Capital One in conjunction with the long-standing TECHSTERS program, many technology and innovation business councils in Virginia are working together to host a statewide “Capture the Flag” event on Saturday, Nov. 3 that will introduce girls to the concepts of cybersecurity in a fun and interactive game style. This program is meant to inspire a future generation to discover technology, get excited about STEM, and build code for real-world applications.

(Formed in 2013, TECHSTERS is an after-school program for middle school aged girls dedicated to inspiring young women to pursue their interests in STEM fields. Since the program’s first day event with robotic balls called Spheros, TECHSTERS has served over 1,100 students in the greater Richmond region. In 2017, Capital One used the TECHSTERS model to host ten regional coding programs for middle school girls all across the Commonwealth. The outcome was spectacular as they reached over 900 students in two days.)

Equipment and FYIs:

• Team size: up to 4 girls. Teams will form either randomly after arrival, or girls can show up with an idea on what team they want to be on (pre-planned w/out the organizer’s involvement). Teams will choose their team name prior to beginning the game. A scoreboard for the local teams and a scoreboard for all teams across the state will be displayed.
• We will be feeding you a snack at lunchtime! (Additionally, feel free to bring a brown bag lunch, or hop across the street and pick up sandwiches, pizza, etc. Starbucks, Jimmy John’s, Burrit-Oh, and pizza is available).
• We are setting up 12 high-speed laptops. Please indicate on the registration form whether you will bring your own laptop or will use one of ours. (If bringing one: Please be sure that it is up-to-date, Internet-capable, and has a browser installed e.g. Chrome.)
• After registration, we will email JMU parking instructions (the week of the event).

Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Massanutten Technical Center!

And thank you to our supporters, Staunton Innovation Hub and SunRunr!