This award honors high school students who identify as women, genderqueer, or non-binary for their computing-related achievements and interests.

Award recipients are selected based on computing and I.T. aptitude, leadership ability, academic history, and plans for post-secondary education.

Since the program’s inception over 600 students have been selected as Minnesota honorees; gaining access to paid internships, job shadow experiences, virtual mentor matches, skill building events, prizes, and much more! In addition, Minnesota Aspirations Award applicants are automatically entered into the national NCWIT Aspirations Award competition.

Who may apply?
Students enrolled in Minnesota schools in grades 9-12 who identify as women, genderqueer, or non-binary.

Why Apply?
This award celebrates and recognizes your leadership ability and academic history, along with your computing-related interests, aspirations and achievements. Aside from access to internships, job shadow experiences, and mentor matches, as well as connections to employers and prizes, winning this award can be a life-transforming experience.

Selected honorees become eligible for a mixture of benefits:

– Local and State Media Recognition
– Cash Prizes and Swag
– Virtual Mentor Access
– In-Person Job Shadow Experiences
– Awards Ceremony (April/May 2023)
– Exclusive access to 6-8 no-cost special events
– Summer 2023 Paid Internships
– College Scholarships
– And much more…

More Info Apply Here