In June (2024), high school students from across West Virginia gathered on WVU’s campus to take part in the Governor’s Computer Science Institute, a state-sponsored program to help techie teens learn more about their passion.
They were met by the Chambers College community. Data Driven WV Director Josh Meadows served as one of the GCSI's faculty members, teaching a course on AI and App Development and leading a research group where students pitched business ideas for an AI-powered app.
Others were involved as guest lecturers: Sears Chair in Global Supply Chain Management John Saldanha, Cyber Analyst Frank Hatten, Data Analyst Hannah Bailey, Management Information Systems and Supply Chain Chair Brad Price, and Management Information Systems alumna Sydney Cowell all taught students about business-centric aspects of the computer science field.
“Students at the WV Governor's Computer Science Institute gained hands-on experience in coding, teamwork and problem-solving, empowering them with practical skills for future technological careers,” Meadows said. “This aligns with our land-grant mission by fostering educational opportunities and community engagement, driving innovation and economic development in Appalachia.”