High School Student Spotlight

When: Tuesday, November 4, 2025, 9:00 AM-2:00 PM (lunch provided)
Where: David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh, PA

The High School Student Spotlight at The Global Impact Forum (TGIF) — hosted by Explore: Pittsburgh Tech Week, presented by Google & Citizens, and powered by Duolingo — is a unique opportunity for Pennsylvania high school students to explore STEM and AI, connect with industry leaders, and showcase their creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills.

This special program will bring together 200 local high school students for a day of discovery, creativity, and connection.

Students will:

Showcase their talents in the Student Showcase, presenting projects and ideas to peers, professionals, and community leaders
Engage in hands-on activations and workshops led by leading organizations, exploring AI, STEM, and emerging technologies in interactive, real-world ways
Network and recharge in a dedicated Lounge hosted by Google and Citizens, with space to connect, collaborate, and have fun

students talking at table — Gritanna Linwood and Chantera Chhoeun from Olney High School of Philadelphia City School District discuss elevating girls in computer science with Hadi Partovi, CEO of Code.org

Student discussing project with leaders — Jaden Young, Central Bucks High School, discusses his project with Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid Mumin and Cathy Hall, of the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

student with the Kings — Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King met with Stephen Clark, a student from Lankenau Environmental Science Magnet School.

Agenda

9:00–9:30 AM | Arrival and check-in (Showcase students may arrive at 9:00 AM to set up)
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | STEM/AI Workshops
12:00 – 1:00 PM | Lunch (provided) + TGIF Keynote + Networking Lounge hosted by Google & Citizens
1:00 – 2:00 PM | High School Student Showcase, including welcome from Dr. Carrie Rowe, Acting Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Education

In the morning, all students will engage in high-energy, interactive workshops focused on artificial intelligence and STEM innovation. Guided by experts, students will:

Experiment with new technologies shaping the future of work
Gain hands-on experience through engaging activities and challenges
Explore how AI connects to real-world careers and community impact
Walk away with practical skills and inspiration to fuel their academic and career goals

These workshops are designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and open doors to future opportunities in science, technology, and beyond.

In the afternoon, select student groups will step into the spotlight to present their projects during the Showcase. Each group will have a table to display their project, prototype, or visual representation of their ideas.

Up to 5 students per group
Projects can focus on any area – STEM, sustainability, social innovation, community impact, and more
Students will share their ideas with professionals, peers, and educators eager to hear their perspectives

Attendance should be treated as a school field trip, following your school’s standard parent/guardian permission process.

Penn State will:

Provide a media release form to include with school field trip permissions
Coordinate directly with the supervising educator/advisor (not individual students or parents)

Chaperone requirements:

A minimum of 2 adult chaperones per school
All chaperones must be provided by the school and have the required Pennsylvania child clearances
No 1:1 contact between adults and minors is permitted

Full Field Trip Requirements

How to Apply

APPLICATION IS NOW CLOSED.

An educator, advisor, or adult supervisor must complete the Interest Form below on behalf of their school or group. If selected, schools will be contacted to officially register and complete the required paperwork. Interest forms are reviewed on a rolling basis.

School Limit: Up to 10 students per school
Chaperones: Minimum of 2 adult chaperones required per school; must meet Penn State field trip requirements (see below)

Our Sponsors

This event is made possible through the support of Explore: Pittsburgh Tech Week, Google, Citizens, and Duolingo. Their commitment helps provide high school students with opportunities to discover, innovate, and connect with the future of work.

Agenda

How to Apply

Our Sponsors

Questions?

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High School Student Spotlight

Agenda

How to Apply

Our Sponsors

Questions?

Amanda Smith M.Ed

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