The Future of Digital Safety: Launching the 3rd Annual ADP Cybersecurity IdeaThon

In an increasingly connected world, protecting personal data is no longer just a technical skill—it’s a global necessity. Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta is proud to announce our continued partnership with ADP for the third annual STEAM IdeaThon, centered this year on the critical field of Cybersecurity.

More Than Just Coding: A Multi-Disciplinary Approach

This year, our high school participants are stepping into the roles of cybersecurity startup teams. What makes the IdeaThon unique is its reach across the STEAM spectrum. We aren’t just looking for programmers; our teams are drawing on perspectives from:

• Neuroscience & Criminal Justice to understand hacker behavior.

• Communication & Design to create user-friendly safety tools.

• Computer Science to build robust digital defenses.

Real-World Challenges, Real-World Mentors

Working alongside volunteer mentors from ADP, teams are diving deep into real-world threats like phishing scams, public Wi-Fi risks, and school data breaches. This hands-on collaboration allows students to see the direct application of their classroom learning in a corporate environment.

The Grand Finale: Shark Tank-Style Expo

After a semester of rigorous brainstorming and testing, the program culminates in a Shark Tank-style expo. Teams will pitch their innovative solutions—ranging from new apps to awareness campaigns—to a panel of tech professionals and educators.

The stakes are high: members of the winning team will earn exclusive internship opportunities, providing a direct bridge from the IdeaThon to a professional career in technology.

Follow along on Instagram to see highlights and more upcoming opportunities to support youth learning and leadership!