SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — State Rep. Debbie Meyers-Martin, D-Matteson, is announcing an opportunity for Chicagoland students to learn about developing technologies, convene workforce development partnerships and create interactive exhibits: the Illinois Innovation Challenge. The event will be held on Dec. 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the Google Office in Chicago, on 320 North Morgan.

“Kids need opportunities to build up practical skills and develop original ideas, maybe nowhere more than in a rapidly-evolving field like computer science,” Meyers-Martin said. “This challenge is going to give hundreds of our kids that chance, as well as to hear from computer science experts. I encourage people who are interested to sign up soon, as spaces are limited.”

In addition to the innovation challenge portion of the event, there will be multiple seminars to learn about computer science and other emerging technologies. The event is being put on by the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology in partnership with HIGH-TECH-CHI, Chicago’s Department of Family and Support Services, CS for Success and Discovery Partners Institute.

Participants must be between 12-20 and be residents of the state of Illinois. Registration is required. To register and learn more details, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/high-tech-chi-tickets-735862874667?aff=oddtdtcreator.

“In addition to fostering learning, events like this help our kids build confidence and individualism, and help them feel comfortable in spaces that can be intimidating, such as computer science,” Meyers-Martin said. “Illinois is growing into a nationwide leader in new technologies, and this event will bring us closer to that goal.”