The Geek Squad Academy is looking for local tech enthusiasts.
Social Impact Specialist at Best Buy Canada, Jen Knight, says they partner with schools, community organizations, and non-profit groups to work with youth aged 10 to 16.
“We partner with them to bring tech to kids who may not have that access and exposure to get them excited about technology, to inspire them to consider careers in technology or just get more excited about technology in general,” she said.
Youth can explore things like robotics, circuit building, 3D design, digital music, and coding.
“The demand for technically trained workers is increasing across Canada, including in the Atlantic. We want to inspire and empower their education through technology. Work with robotics, and help them to not get intimated by things like coding,” said Knight.
“We want them to just get excited about the possibilities technology provides.”
Knight explains the Geek Squad Academy is a free program, and they provide all of the needed equipment and instructors. Programs run for approximately six hours or a regular school day.
Applications for the 2020 season are being accepted online until February 16th.
“We are excited and interested to learn more about the students who go to the school, to find out why they might want a program like ours and how they think exposure to technology would make a difference in their lives,” Knight said.
In 2019, 17 Geek Squad Academy events were conducted across Canada. Two of them were in Saint John.
To apply, visit Geek Squad Academy.