KC Tech Council launches initiative for young women in tech, backed by Meta, Panasonic
February 29, 2024 | Startland News Staff
A new strategic program from the KC Tech Council is designed to empower and equip female-identifying students entering their junior (class of 2026) and senior (class of 2025) years of high school with tech exposure, career guidance, leadership opportunities, and invaluable mentorship.
The LEGiT KC program (Leadership and Empowerment for Girls in Tech), sponsored by Meta and Panasonic, aims to bridge the gender gap, uplifting individual aspirations, and contributing to a more diverse and innovative tech industry, according to the KC Tech Council.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to announce this program,” said Erin Christensen, chief operating officer for the KC Tech Council. “Over two years ago, we started discussing how the Tech Council could better support and elevate women in tech. Through a lot of research, interviews, focus groups, LEGiT was born!”
High school girls find themselves at a pivotal juncture where their choices and experiences can significantly shape their future, the tech advocacy group said, noting that while careers in technology offer immense potential, young women often face unique challenges in accessing opportunities.
LEGiT KC will select upward of two female students from high schools across the Kansas City region, and interested participants are urged to complete the short application by April 1st, 2024, according to the KC Tech Council.
No prior technology experience is required, just a passion for tech and a commitment to five half-day Friday sessions at Oracle, 1898 & Co./Burns & McDonnell, Dimensional Innovations, Garmin, and VML in June and July 2024.
“Since breaking ground on our new EV battery facility in Kansas in 2022, we’ve admired how the KC Tech Council connects and champions the thriving tech community throughout the Greater Kansas City region,” said Kristen Walters, vice president of human resources for Panasonic Energy. “We appreciate the opportunity to support KCTC’s Leadership and Empowerment for Girls in Technology program, especially as it aligns perfectly with our focus on improving access and inclusion in STEAM education and career readiness.”
Volunteers are welcome to contribute as potential speakers and/or mentors for LEGiT participants, fostering group mentorship.
Click here to learn more about LEGiT KC or to express interest in volunteering.
“Meta is committed to supporting projects that build connections, put technology to use for community benefit, and enhance local STEM education,” said Stephanie Seger, community development regional manager at Meta. “Our Kansas City Data Center is honored to sponsor the KC Tech Council’s LEGiT program and its crucial mission to foster leadership and empowerment for girls in the Kansas City tech community. We are proud to be part of the Kansas City community and thrilled to help invest in its future leaders.”
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