Tag: Propel Center

Imagine tackling real-world problems with cutting-edge artificial intelligence before you even graduate. That’s exactly what talented students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are doing, thanks to initiatives like the PROPEL Center’s Future of Tech Innovation Challenge. It’s a powerful testament to the bright minds emerging from these institutions.

Morgan State Takes Top Honors

The inaugural PROPEL Center Future of Tech Innovation Challenge saw teams from across the nation present their AI-powered solutions. Emerging victorious was the “Hax Lab” team from Morgan State University, who not only impressed judges but also secured a $35,000 prize. For Fikewa Akindolire, a rising junior and honors information systems major at Morgan State, the experience was invaluable.

Akindolire, who aspires to be an AI/machine learning product manager, shared that the challenge reaffirmed her career goals. “Being able to see a product from inception all the way to fruition, prototyping and actually being able to pitch it—that’s exactly what I want to do,” she told BLACK ENTERPRISE. This hands-on experience is crucial for preparing students for the future of the tech industry.

A Hub for HBCU Innovation

Supported by tech giants like Apple and Southern Company, the PROPEL Center serves as a global hub dedicated to preparing HBCU students for careers in technology. The Future of Tech Innovation Challenge brought together 70 finalists from 17 HBCUs, who worked in teams to develop AI-driven solutions for sectors like education, energy, health, cybersecurity, and media technology.

Harriette K. Burrell, Vice President of Operations and Chief Strategy Officer at PROPEL Center, highlighted the program’s mission: “We are building a new standard for HBCU innovation, one that positions students not just as learners, but as creators, problem-solvers, and future leaders in AI and technology.” The event underscored the potential of HBCU students to make significant contributions to the tech landscape.

Recognizing Top Talent

1. 1st Place: “Hax Lab” (Morgan State University) – $35,000
2. 2nd Place: “The Planeteers” (Fisk University) – $25,000
3. 3rd Place: “Team ABS” (Huston-Tillotson University) – $15,000

The challenge wasn’t just about winning prizes; it was about fostering meaningful connections and building skills. Students networked with industry leaders, collaborated across disciplines, and gained invaluable experience presenting their ideas. This initiative, along with others like BLACK ENTERPRISE’s BE SMART HBCU Hackathon, plays a vital role in increasing the representation of Black professionals in the tech industry.

As Burrell noted, the creativity and vision displayed by these students are inspiring, reinforcing the critical importance of investing in HBCU talent to shape the future leaders of technology. The “Hax Lab” team plans to use their winnings for investments, graduate school, business ventures, and supporting those experiencing homelessness, demonstrating a commitment to giving back.