Young people around the country have been inspired to consider technology careers at Geek Squad Academy sessions that continue this summer

MINNEAPOLIS — (BUSINESS WIRE) — June 10, 2015 — Best Buy’s Geek Squad today announced the launch of the ninth Geek Squad Academy summer program. This grassroots tech experience inspires under-served teens to consider technology careers and help address the nation’s widely-anticipated professional labor shortage.

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Teens are inspired to consider technology careers at Geek Squad Academy sessions which launch today and run through the summer. (Photo: Best Buy Co., Inc.)

According to the Change the Equation, a group of Fortune 500 companies that encourages students to pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) careers, the American workforce is still failing to pursue different fields. The lack of broad representation in these high-demand areas threatens the U.S. economy by creating a competitive advantage for other countries.

“This program offers young people the opportunity to learn about technology and all of the professional possibilities that come with it,” said Susan Bass Roberts, head of Community Relations/Diversity & Inclusion at Best Buy. “Providing this kind of hands-on training in the right way enhances their desire to apply this knowledge to their future education and career choices.”

Conducted in partnership with non-profit organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Junior Achievement and Young Adult Library Services Association, Geek Squad Academy classes are designed by Geek Squad Agents to demystify technology and ignite a passion for technology through fun and inspiring hands-on learning. At this year’s sessions, students will explore the ins and outs of technology through subjects like digital citizenship, film production, computer programming and robotics, as well as 3D printing and circuitry.

Thousands of youth in cities around the U.S. will participate in more than 30 Geek Squad Academy sessions kicking off today in Cleveland and Orlando, and continuing through mid-September. Other markets include: