US college and universities are experiencing a dramatic decline in enrollment of computing majors, despite a predicted, rapid increase in future jobs in the computer science (CS) and information technology (IT) sectors. This reflects a decline in the number of students taking the AP computer science exam. To address this issue, this project will build statewide networks of college, middle school, and high school faculty who will offer workshops and provide continuing support during the academic year.

The "Global Challenge Award ITEST Program" will engage young women and minority high school students in a series of integrated STEM activities. International teams of approximately 200 14-17 year old students will participate in the program receiving 280 hours of mentoring and tutoring from research scientists, engineers, mathematicians and project leaders. Eight to 10 team challenges will be designed to build students' prerequisite knowledge and skills to succeed in the annual GCA competition.