Birmingham Welcomes a New Wave of Data Scholars
Birmingham, Alabama—A bright future for tech talent was on display recently at QuantHub’s headquarters, where the Alabama Data Scholars celebrated the graduation of their inaugural class. This program, aimed at high school and college students, is gearing up for its second year and has big plans for the future.
Transforming Futures with Data Skills
According to the organization, the Alabama Data Scholars initiative is dedicated to providing students with essential skills in data science, analytics, and artificial intelligence. The first cohort this summer consisted of 26 talented scholars who gained hands-on experience with various corporate partners, startups, and even nonprofit organizations. These partnerships are a vital component of the program, providing students with paid internships that give them a leg up before they even graduate from high school.
A Broad Network of Opportunities
The range of employers involved in the program is expansive and includes major organizations such as Energy Alabama, the Hispanic and Immigrant Center of Alabama (HICA), and Protective Life Insurance. These collaborations are designed to offer students real-world experience, working on tasks that include data analysis, data visualization, and even utilizing programming languages like Python and SQL.
Spotlight on Rural Development
Brenda Tuck, the Rural Development Manager for the Alabama Department of Commerce, highlighted the importance of this program for rural students. “We want to let students see rural opportunities relating to data and technology,” she noted in a statement. She expressed excitement about the impact these experiences can have, both in professional development and community engagement. Interns will assist in tracking Salesforce projects, cleaning records, and even participating in industry visits.
Eligibility and Application Process
High school sophomores, juniors, seniors, and recent graduates over the age of 16 are eligible to apply. The application process requires signed parental consent for those under 18. For 2024, the cohort was selected from a competitive pool of candidates who showcased their passion for data science, academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and commitment to driving positive change in the state.
Looking Ahead: 2025 Programs and Opportunities
The momentum doesn’t stop here. Registration is currently underway for organizations interested in hosting interns for the summer of 2025. The deadline for priority registrations is November 1, and student applications will start being accepted on December 1. After a thorough vetting process, the selected candidates will embark on their internship journeys from May 12 to August 1 for undergraduates and from June 9 to August 1 for high school students.
Community Impact and Skills for the Future
The Alabama Data Scholars program aims to not only equip students with vital workforce skills but also to contribute positively to their communities. By providing work experience in high-demand fields, organizers hope to inspire a new generation of scholars who will stay in Alabama and make impactful contributions to the economy.
As the program prepares for its second year, the future looks promising for aspiring data scientists in Alabama. With continuous support from local businesses and organizations, the Alabama Data Scholars initiative is set to become a driving force in cultivating talent and enhancing educational opportunities throughout the state.
