University of Advancing Technology's Official Technology Blog

University of Advancing Technology hosts week long STEM coding camp with Coding in Color for fourth consecutive year.

Camp for the Future

From July 13–17, the University of Advancing Technology (UAT) proudly hosted the fourth annual Coding in Color Summer Camp—an immersive, overnight tech bootcamp designed to inspire and empower underrepresented high school students through the power of code. In it's fourth year, the camp focused on a pivotal topic permeating the technology industry: artificial intelligence. 

The camp began with an introduction to programming and AI, giving students a foundation in how code and machine learning intersect. As the week progressed, they explored data analysis and model-building, learning how to interpret information and build functional AI systems of their own. Themes of artificial intelligence, programming, ethics, and emotional intelligence flushed through the UAT hallways as they worked tediously on perfecting their own applications. 

Midweek, students engaged in meaningful conversations and debates that tested their ability to think independently and critically. A topic would be introduced such and they were tasked with being on the opposing or affirmative side, then they had to orally debate their stances.

As the week wrapped, they began designing and building their own AI solutions, preparing for a final pitch at the end of the camp. The last day was devoted to refining their projects, culminating in a public presentation where students showcased their work to family, mentors, and members of the community.

Guest Speakers

In addition to the technical curriculum, campers benefited from a series of engaging guest presentations designed to broaden their understanding of the industry and higher education opportunities. Melissa Drake, Executive Director of TechWomenAZ, pioneered a session focusing on emoitonal intelligence in the workplace. Gina Moreno, Speaker, Empowerment Coach, Creator — Empowermente Collective, discussed the importance of praise and self-advocacy. Other guest speakers textured the week with insightful gems that added to already stellar week of programming.

UAT’s own staff also contributed their expertise throughout the week. Tristan from Student Services outlined the academic support available to students at the university, while Danny from Financial Aid provided a comprehensive overview of scholarships, grants, and other ways to fund a college education.

Dual Experience

Outside of the workshops, campers also got a chance to live like college students hosted by UAT’s Founder's Hall. The residence life team organized events like a movie night in the campus theater, bucket hat decorating, snow cones and socializing, and a spirited E-Sports tournament and game night in the UAT Think Tank. These moments provided campers with a chance to relax, build friendships, and experience the vibrant student life that UAT has to offer.

Final Presentations

The camp concluded with final presentations in UAT’s theater space. The presentations allowed the student to pitch their respective applications which included presenting the problem, solution, funding plan and the scalability. This process mirrored UAT's Student Innovation Project process where undergraduates students are required to create an innovation within their field. 

STEM for the Future

As Coding in Color makes a magical mark in the state of Arizona, UAT remains an enthusiastic partner in its mission—to open doors, spark minds, and build a more inclusive future through technology. Founder Diana Lee Guzman has created a culture now that not only enhances the technological literacy of K-12, but has now expanded beyond to adults, educators and beyond.

Coding in Color is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide educational resources for underrepresented students in computing with a primary focus on computer science education in Arizona. (https://codingincolor.net/)

To learn more about how you can join UAT, schedule a tour or visit University of Advancing Technology.