TechMGM, Meta, and Community Partners Inspire Future Tech Leaders at CampIT 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 1, 2025

Montgomery, AL – Last week, the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce’s TechMGM initiative, in collaboration with Meta, Alabama State University, and key community partners, successfully hosted CampIT 2025—a transformative technology experience aimed at equipping the next generation of IT and STEM professionals with the skills and knowledge needed for the future workforce.

Held at Alabama State University’s Ralph Abernathy Auditorium, the event welcomed nearly 300 eighth grade students from across Montgomery for a day of hands-on learning and career exploration in Information Technology (IT), artificial intelligence (AI), and STEM fields. Designed to spark curiosity and engagement, CampIT featured interactive workshops, breakout sessions, and an expert panel discussion on career pathways in the rapidly evolving technology sector.

Students had the unique opportunity to work directly with industry leaders from organizations such as the United States Air Force (USAF), Ed Farm, COLLAB, and Alabama State University, gaining real-world insights into the latest technological advancements. Through engaging, hands-on activities, they explored key topics including generative AI, mobile app development, augmented reality, robotics, and digital marketing—fields that are shaping the future of innovation.
 
“At Meta, we are committed to playing a positive role in the communities that we operate, and that includes promoting STEM education for students,” said Henry Thornton, Community Development Regional Manager for Meta’s Montgomery Data Center. “We are thrilled to sponsor CampIT for 2025. We are proud to be shaping the future workforce by exposing students to real-world applications of technology.”

Events like CampIT play a vital role in shaping the future workforce by introducing students to emerging technologies early on. Through hands-on experiences and direct engagement with industry professionals, these initiatives bridge the gap between education and workforce readiness, equipping students with the skills and insights needed to succeed. As technology continues to transform industries, programs like CampIT 2025 ensure that students gain the knowledge, inspiration, and resources necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving digital economy.

Beyond skill development, cultivating interest in IT and STEM fields among young students helps build a diverse and dynamic talent pipeline. By showcasing real-world applications of AI, robotics, and digital innovation, CampIT not only inspires future tech leaders but also strengthens Montgomery’s position as a competitive hub for technology and innovation. The collaboration between educational institutions, businesses, and government entities through initiatives like CampIT drives economic growth, fuels innovation, and secures future job opportunities, ensuring a strong and sustainable workforce for years to come.

“CampIT 2025 was an incredible success, and we are proud to provide students with this unique opportunity to explore technology careers,” said Charisse Stokes, Executive Director of TechMGM. “By exposing students to emerging fields like AI and robotics and connecting them with industry leaders, we are ensuring that Montgomery remains at the forefront of innovation and workforce development.”

With the success of this year’s event, TechMGM and its partners remain committed to expanding opportunities for students and ensuring that Montgomery continues to be a hub for technology and innovation.

Link to Photos from CampIT: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjC7oDH

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ABOUT TECHMGM: TechMGM is Montgomery Chamber’s technology and innovation initiative, fostering growth, collaboration, and talent development in the region. Through partnerships with industry, education, and government, TechMGM accelerates the adoption of technology and promotes a vibrant tech ecosystem.
 
ABOUT THE MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: Committed to creating jobs and enhancing quality of life in Montgomery and the Capital River Region, the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce represents 1,600 organizations and over 90,000 employees. As a comprehensive economic development organization, the Chamber integrates destination tourism, economic development, business growth, workforce development, and community strategies to drive regional progress.

Media Inquiries:
For media credentials and interview requests, please contact:
Greta Locke | Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce
(C) 205.862.9307 | glocke@montgomerychamber.com