DENVER — Nov. 28, 2023 — Optiv, the cyber advisory and solutions leader, is creating Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) Labs in Denver, Kansas City, Toronto and Bangalore to help inspire the cybersecurity talent of tomorrow. Designed to give students enriched opportunities to learn, grow and explore a future in technology, the labs will include updated tech equipment, new furniture and an atmosphere built for learning. Optiv employees will also volunteer their time and knowledge with lab participants.

“Access to technology should never be hindered by a zip code,” said Heather Rim, Optiv’s chief marketing officer. “On Giving Tuesday, and every day, our employees feel a deep passion and sense of responsibility to help youth see themselves in cyber. We believe that visibility must start early, in the classroom and through community-based organizations where we have the best opportunity to inspire curiosity and wonder in technology fields.”

To support employee volunteerism, Optiv’s initial STEAM Lab investments are in locations in which a large number of its employees live and work:

Denver
Kearney Middle School, an Adams County School District public school with an 85% free or reduced student lunch rate, via its partnership with Mile High United Way’s “United for Schools” program will receive technical equipment, including iPads, digital pens, 3D printers and more to expand the school’s current art facility into a fully operational STEAM Lab offering graphic design, shop, technology and engineering courses.

Kansas City
Operation Breakthrough, which provides a safe, loving and educational environment for children in poverty, will be aided in the continued growth and operations of its on-site K-8 MakerSpace, including adding a 3D printing bay and an interactive smart board.

Toronto
Tropicana Community Services, which offers counseling, settlement, childcare, education, personal development and employment services, will receive funds to go toward updating its existing lab space with new computers, HD LED equipment and Microsoft licensing to better serve its STEAM spring and summer camps, as well as its coding classes.

Bangalore
In partnership with the Shooting Stars Foundation, Appareddypalaya School will receive a commitment to create a new STEAM Lab for its enrollment of low-income students. The investment, in addition to Optiv employee volunteer hours, includes nearly two dozen desktop computers, Wi-Fi and networking capabilities and digital literacy education.

“We’re a purpose-driven company committed to engaging our communities with hands-on, skills-based volunteerism, which provides opportunities to shine a light on work in the technology and cybersecurity industries while also evolving the interests and skills of tomorrow’s leaders,” said Amber Peacher, Optiv’s senior corporate social responsibility manager. “Whether it’s through Optiv Chips In or client and partner matches, we’ve established meaningful relationships with wonderful organizations across North America and India to ensure we’re part of something bigger than ourselves that will make a lasting positive impact.”

For more information about Optiv ESG, visit https://www.optiv.com/company/esg.
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