Hamilton High School junior Yuchun Wang was awarded the 2015 Wisconsin NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing. The award, sponsored by the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT), recognizes high school females for their computing-related achievements and interests in an effort to encourage more young women to choose careers in technology.
Award-winners were selected from high schools across Wisconsin for their outstanding aptitude and interest in information technology and computing, solid leadership ability, good academic history and plans for postsecondary education. In nominating her for the award, Hamilton social studies teacher Lori Hinytz acknowledged Wang’s natural curiosity in computers, programming and technology.
“This individual has consistently pushed herself in developing new skills and finding new opportunities,” Hinytz wrote. “Many of her skills have been self-taught through tutorials.”
Wang will receive engraved awards for herself and Hamilton High School, an opportunity to win a $1,000 University of Wisconsin-Madison computer science scholarship, an invitation to join the private Facebook page including all national and state winners since 2007 and other assorted merchandise from NCWIT, technology companies and universities.
“Encouraging young women’s interest in technology careers is critical. Our workforce needs their creativity and their innovation,” said Lucy Sanders, NCWIT CEO and cofounder.
NCWIT works to correct the imbalance of gender diversity in technology and computing to build a larger workforce, better innovation and increased business performance. It helps organizations recruit, retain, and advance women from K-12 and higher education through industry and entrepreneurial careers by providing community, evidence, and action. Its Award for Aspirations in Computing is one example toward that goal targeting high school girls.