What equipment and supplies are required?

Each student must bring:

• A laptop (Mac or PC)
• A smartphone or mobile device (iOS or Android tablet or phone). No data plan required
• Lunch + snacks
• Water bottle

If you need assistance with equipment, please let us know during your interview and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Why are you focusing on Pebble development?

Pebble is accessible, but also powerful. Beginners can learn to program a Pebble smartwatch using simple JavaScript, and more advanced users can leverage C, which is one of the most powerful programming languages available. Pebble also ties intricately with mobile apps which opens up a world of learning possibilities. Ultimately students will learn everything necessary to kick-start a career or hobby in mobile and wearable development by learning how to build apps for the Pebble. We also provide a Pebble to every ASL student, at no extra cost!

How is your program different from other summer tech programs?

The goal of most tech programs is to teach a specific skill such as programming. At Austin Spark League (ASL), our goal is to teach kids how to create a product, and our philosophy is that programming is a tool which can be used to enable entrepreneurship. At ASL you can expect your son or daughter to be exposed to the entire lifecycle of creating a product including ideation, design, prototyping, coding, testing, and going to market.

Is knowledge of programming a requirement?

No. Just curiosity, a strong interest in creating something, and a willingness to learn.

What programming languages will students learn?

Typically ASL students learn C and JavaScript. But this is just a small part of what makes our program great! Programming is just one tool in the kit of success, and students will learn how to use many more tools at ASL.

Who created Austin Spark League?

We're founded by experienced technology professionals with a passion for helping others succeed in an ever-changing world. Combined, we've founded 10 businesses and have over 40 years experience in software and mobile development, design, and entrepreneurship. We’re bringing together our extensive network of business leaders, designers, developers, and technologists to create the best summer program available for Austin’s teenagers. While we are technologists by trade, we are educators at heart.

Do you offer tuition assistance?

Yes! We want to help anyone who wants to join the program can, regardless of financial situation. 

We’re working with local organizations to offer scholarships to help cover some or all of the cost of tuition for those who qualify. If you’re interested in tuition assistance, please let us know fill out a scholarship application and we'll be in touch with next steps.

Can i assist with a student's funding needs?

Yes! We’d love to work with you or your company to see how to best help those students who need assistance. Please get in touch and we’ll contact you ASAP. Thanks!

What age ranges can be part of the ASL summer program?

Currently our programs are limited to high school students entering 9th - 12th grade in the fall as well as students who are graduating high school in the spring, so most students will be aged 14-18. 

As a parent, can I participate?

Yes! There is limited space for parental assistance both during the 2 week session and during the weekend hackathon. All parents and community members are welcome to join the celebration at the end of the hackathon.

Why is there an application process?

Spots are limited and we want students to get the most out of the Austin Spark League program. In order to ensure the best possible experience for all students, it is important that applicants are a good match for the program.