Next Generation Pathways to Computing Program

The Next Generation  Pathways to Computing Program (NGP) affords rising high school juniors, seniors, and recent graduates from accredited high schools or home school programs in Anderson, Blount, Knox, Loudon, and Roane counties the opportunity to learn about foundational computer and computational science skills. Students will be mentored by ORNL research and technical staff and will gain valuable skills needed for successful careers in computing fields. Participants will have access to ORNL’s leadership-class facilities, including Frontier, the world’s most powerful supercomputer. With a focus on solving the world’s most challenging scientific and technical challenges, ORNL conducts basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security. ORNL’s Computing and Computational Sciences Directorate oversees an immense store of computing power, and its talented staff of computational scientists and mathematicians conduct state-of-the-art research and development in computer and computational sciences in support of the US Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) missions and programs.

Any public, private, or homeschool student who attends or has recently graduated from any high school school in Anderson, Blount, Knox, Loudon, or Roane Counties is eligible to apply.

Diversity is Key

Scientific discovery is a team effort. Researchers, engineers, and technical and business professionals support achievements in science and technology by helping to manage and operate research projects and facilities. We believe the teams required to solve the nation’s most pressing scientific challenges are those that combine a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives.

Summer 2024 applications are open now until April 5, 2024 at 11:59 P.M. E.T.

Students are expected to participate 40 hours per week from June 10, 2024 – July 12, 2024.

Program benefits include:

  • Weekly stipend of up to $500 based on 40 hours of participation each week
  • The opportunity to learn from world-renown scientists and engineers
  • Optional professional development activities, including workshops, lab tours, lectures, poster sessions, seminars, and networking opportunities
  • Lunch stipend
  • Transportation to and from ORNL available

To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident at the time of application
  • Be a rising junior/senior or a recently graduated senior (within two years of graduation who has not yet enrolled in college) who has not yet fully enrolled in college, or in good standing at an accredited high school or enrolled in an accredited home school program in Anderson, Blount, Knox, Roane or Loudon County
  • Be at least 16 years of age by the time of appointment
  • Have a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0

Participant Obligations:

  • Complete an online application via Zintillect
  • Obtain at least one recommendation, through the Zintellect application system, from a STEM teacher and principal (curriculum coordinator for home school students)*
  • Complete pre- and post-appointment surveys
  • Behave in a responsible and professional manner
  • Avoid activities that interfere with the appointment period
  • Complete a poster presentation at the end of appointment

*Only applications with recommendations submitted from a principal or STEM teacher (curriculum coordinator for home school students) by the deadline will be considered for selections.

For more information about high school opportunities, please email [email protected].