P-TECH freshmen use innovative technology during APG showcase

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, MD.- Freshmen in the Pathways in Technology Early College High School program had the opportunity to see and try cutting-edge technology used by the military and Department of the Army civilians during the P-TECH Summer Institute APG Technology Showcase Aug. 8, 2023.

In her opening remarks, U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command Deputy to the Commanding General Liz Miranda welcomed the 24 students. She challenged them to think about what careers they might pursue in the future during the visit.

“Programs like [P-TECH] are so critical because they help you figure that out,” she said.

According to Miranda, with more than 21,000 personnel working for the installation, both in-person and remotely, APG is the number one employer in Harford County and one of the largest in Maryland. Medical research, coding, software engineering, human resources, and equipment testing are just some of the many careers available at APG.

“The Army affords us many great opportunities, not just to work supporting the Soldiers, which is amazing, but also for professional and career growth,” she said. “It is a win-win.”

CECOM P-TECH Program Manager Casi Boyer introduced the students to some of the mentors who will work with the students during their first year.

“Our mentors are here to be a resource for you,” she said.

CW5 Linc McCoy, the command warrant officer for CECOM, encouraged the students to be inquisitive and ask Soldiers and civilians about their educational backgrounds and career experience.

“Not only challenge yourself but respectfully challenge the person who is giving the demonstration because they want to help you learn,” he said.

During the day, topics covered included advanced manufacturing, chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, software engineering, cybersecurity, radars and robotics.

Chad Reda, with the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command’s C5ISR Center, showed students a large mobile command center that can rapidly deploy and hosts a variety of communications.

Other organizations represented included the CECOM Software Engineering Center; CECOM Integrated Logistics Support Center; and Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense.

TJ Johnson, with the local N-Step Robotics Team, also demonstrated the technology the team members use during competitions. Team members learn about coding, teamwork, leadership, creativity and problem-solving skills to succeed, he said.

P-TECH student Melody Turner said she enjoyed having the opportunity to control a robot.

“I learned about how the different organizations work to support the military; they all play a big role here; it is really cool,” she said.

P-TECH student Trystan Boyd said he appreciated having the opportunity to talk to cybersecurity professionals.

“I learned about building a computer, more about coding,” he said. “It was fun.”

Before returning to school, the students concluded their visit with a bus tour of APG.

About the P-TECH program

The P-TECH program combines the best elements of high school, college, and work-based learning. Students are immersed in high school and college courses while working in the field of computer information systems or cybersecurity. The program empowers students to pursue advanced education and to be financially successful in a global economy. The program is offered at Joppatowne High School in partnership with Harford Community College and CECOM on APG, offering students paid internships and individualized mentorship throughout their educational journey. Any Harford County rising ninth grader can apply to the program.

For more photos, visit: P-TECH Summer Institute APG Technology APG Technology Showcase-Aug. 8, 2023 | Flickr.