TACKLING TECH 2025. WEEK 1.
WELCOME TO THE TACKLING TECH PHOTO GALLERY — WHERE INNOVATION MEETS IMPACT.
This summer, our Tackling Tech high school internship program kicked off with a dynamic cohort of students dedicated to exploring careers in computer science, technology, and leadership. From day one, these interns have dived into hands-on learning, professional development, and real-world projects designed to equip them with the skills and confidence to succeed in the tech-driven workforce.
Our first week also launched the ‘HeartCharged’ initiative, a health and wellness component rooted in CPR awareness and heart health education. In partnership with the American Heart Association, we welcomed Yolana Wakefield-Wilson, Business Development Manager for Community CPR, who led an engaging session on Hands-Only CPR and the importance of being prepared in an emergency.
These images capture the energy, focus, and passion of our interns as they learn, lead, and grow—on their way to becoming the next generation of changemakers.
TACKLING TECH 2025. WEEK 2.
WEEK 2 OF TACKLING TECH 2025 WAS ALL ABOUT ELEVATING VOICES AND ENVISIONING FUTURES.
Our student interns had the incredible opportunity to hear from Giovanna Caponetto of Guided by G Agency, who led an engaging and interactive session on branding, digital storytelling, and the power of visual media. Giovanna walked students through the strategy behind building personal websites, introducing them to front-end development concepts such as HTML structure, CSS styling, and user experience design.
As they explored how to craft authentic narratives, students also learned how to integrate multimedia elements—like custom graphics, videos, and animations—into their web pages using platforms and tools that mirror real-world tech workflows. Giovanna emphasized the role of data-driven storytelling, discussing how tech professionals use analytics and engagement metrics to shape digital content strategies.
By combining creative expression with technical skill-building, this session inspired students to see themselves as both storytellers and developers—using code, design, and media to make their voices heard in today’s digital world.
TACKLING TECH 2025. WEEK 3.
WEEK 3 OF TACKLING TECH 2025 WAS ALL ABOUT FUTURE PATHWAYS IN TECH + HIGHER EDUCATION
Our interns took a deep dive into front-end development, refining their Heart Charged campaign sites with fresh layouts, thoughtful design choices, and hands-on UX/UI best practices. Code met creativity as students experimented with typography, color palettes, and responsive elements to make their projects truly shine.
Mid-week, we welcomed UMKC’s Lauren Orozco—First-Time College Student Recruitment Specialist—to unpack the journey from high-school coder to college-level STEM scholar. She broke down application timelines, scholarship search tips, and the value of pursuing a purpose-driven major. By the end of her session, students walked away with clearer roadmaps—and a healthy dose of confidence—for turning today’s skills into tomorrow’s opportunities.
Mentorship, exposure, and real-world practice remain the pillars of Tackling Tech. Week 3 proved just how powerful that combination can be.
TACKLING TECH 2025. WEEK 4.
WEEK 4 OF TACKLING TECH 2025 WAS ALL ABOUT COMPUTER SCIENCE + MEDIA FOR ADVOCACY
This week was all about using tech as a tool for impact. Our student interns stepped in front of and behind the camera to produce campaign videos for the Heart Charged initiative—merging their growing digital skills with a powerful message about heart health and community action.
With guidance from our founder, Justin Reid, students explored media production techniques, on-camera storytelling, and the fundamentals of filming with intention. From scriptwriting to editing, they transformed technical skills into tools for advocacy—demonstrating how tech can amplify voices and spark change.
Week 4 was a masterclass in creativity with purpose. The projects coming to life this week are a true reflection of the heart behind the work—and the mission driving Tackling Tech forward.
