Connected Tech Pathway Program for Youth
Building Brighter Futures Through Tech
Empowering young people to explore, learn, and thrive in the digital economy.
Our Vision for Youth in Tech
Xchange’s Connected Tech Pathway, bridges the gap between classroom learning and tech careers by equipping youth on Chicago’s South Side with the essential skills, confidence, and industry connections to thrive in high-growth technology careers.
A once-in-a-generation opportunity for Chicago’s South Side
By integrating the physical, digital, and social infrastructure of the Comer Education Campus and Xchange Chicago, we’re creating accessible and scalable pathways into technology for thousands of students in the community.
Integrating Infrastructure for Accessible, Scalable Pathways
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Physical Infrastructure
Comer Education Campus: Shared flexible learning spaces within the middle school, high school, youth center, 2-acre farm, track, and field, and public library.
Xchange: Mentorship, teaching, and social capital building with tech professionals.
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Social Infrastructure
Comer Education Campus: Teachers, staff, and community partners delivering programming and wrap-around support services.
Xchange: State of the art onshore IT delivery center with three employer offices and 200+ employees.
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Digital Infrastructure
Comer Education Campus: Reliable WIFI, technical equipment, software access, and digital resources.
Xchange: Digital platform with state-of-the-art equipment, internet access, and software.
Explore Your Pathway
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Tech-Curious
(Grades 5–8)
Introductory STEM and digital literacy, project-based skill building, certifications (if applicable) -
Tech Explorers
(Grades 9–10)
Hands-on projects and industry exposure, project-based skill building, certifications (if applicable) -
Tech Enthusiasts
(Grades 11–12)
Hands-on projects and industry exposure, project-based skill building, certifications (if applicable) -
Alumni & Young Adults
Post-Secondary
Ongoing support, upskilling, and job placement, project-based skill building, certifications (if applicable)
Program Overview
Real People, Real Impact.
Rashad Davis, 10th grade computer science teacher, Gary Comer College Prep
“What made this experience truly special was how AI was used intentionally and respectfully to challenge students to dig deeper, think more critically, and own their voice in new and empowering ways. This is exactly how we believe AI should be integrated into education: as a human-centered tool that deepens learning and elevates student potential.
This opportunity directly aligns with our Principal JuDonne Hemingway's vision of classroom-to-career connected learning, giving students both the skills and the confidence to navigate their futures with purpose.
Thank you to our partners for believing in our students and helping us create transformative learning experiences! ”
Nuwan Samaraweera, Chief Operating Officer & EVP, Talent Solutions at P33
“Most rewarding was observing the students grow through the experience, improve their confidence and presentations remarkably, and share their honest feedback on what resonated and what did not so we can improve the tools we share with them. The insights they provided were beyond their years.”
Partners
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Non-Profit Organization
Gary Comer Youth Center prepares young people to confidently lead in and out of the classroom and to become well-rounded global citizens through diverse programs, wraparound services, and career exploration opportunities. The youth center has been anchored In Greater Grand Crossing on Chicago’s South Side since 2006.
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United in a shared commitment to students’ success in college and beyond, we work to cultivate a rigorous college preparatory environment and to build scholarship, discipline, and honor in our students. We do this by setting audaciously high goals and implementing various systems of support for our students. Our goal is that each of our students is able to lead an ethical, healthy, safe, and financially stable life realized through hard work.
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United in a shared commitment to students’ success in college and beyond, we work to cultivate a rigorous college preparatory environment and to build scholarship, discipline, and honor in our students. We do this by setting audaciously high goals and implementing various systems of support for our students. Our goal is that each of our students is able to lead an ethical, healthy, safe, and financially stable life realized through hard work.
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Girl Security is harnessing the unique and powerful insights of girls and women to build the future of security through workforce training, open source solutions, and strategic alliances. Learn More.
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STEAM & Dream Liberation Labs is a new 501(c)3 organization dedicated to closing the STEM exposure gap and improving the futures of Black and Brown youth through mentorship and culturally affirming programming. Learn More.
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Xchange Chicago, led by the Comer Science & Education Foundation, SDI Presence, and P33, presents a catalytic opportunity to create tech workforce hubs accessible to all Chicagoans. Xchange builds on existing talent and leverages local expertise to overcome challenges to upward mobility and wealth generation. By offering training, wrap-around services, and a direct pathway into apprenticeships and jobs at employers located within the community, Xchange Chicago will spur neighborhood revitalization.
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P33 is an intentional and collaborative effort led by Chicago business and tech leaders across the private and public-sector to transform Chicago into a tier one technology and innovation hub and promote economic growth.
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Certified MBE Supplier
For over 25 years, SDI has earned the role of trusted IT advisor to a portfolio of clients that includes utilities, airports, mass transits, and government agencies throughout the United States. SDI provides end-to-end technology services, driving performance, continuous improvement, and cost controls to better serve clients and their constituents.
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Non-Profit Organization
Operation Neighborhood Safety is a collaboration of community organizations creating safe spaces and safe times. Building Peace with Presence
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5th Ward Alderman’s Office