Digital Dynamics Inc. (DDI) hosted an “Introduction to Software Engineering” session at Scotts Valley High School (SVHS) last week. Collaborating with the SVHS Coding Club and advanced math students was a “fantastic experience for all involved,” according to DDI.
“At DDI, we are deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of tech talent,” stated the local semiconductor company in a news release.
The Oct. 16 Lunch and Learn event showcased DDI’s passion for community engagement, where the company shared valuable insights into software engineering and introduced students to its talented engineers—Danielle Laganiere (class of 2022), Arthur Weimholt (class of 2023) and Matthew Zurlin (class of 2022), all UCSC graduates who provided relatable insights into their own career journeys.
Weimholt reflected on the experience, saying, “The most impactful part of presenting was definitely the interactive aspect—where the students were asking questions and addressing their concerns. I remember being at that transitional stage in my life with similar goals, but I didn’t have anyone outside of my family to guide me. I was super happy to impart my knowledge and give a different perspective on the opportunities they may have.”
DDI gave a special thanks to SVHS Coding Club President Prathik Kurella and IB Coordinator John Postovit for their hard work in organizing the event and expanding participation to students interested in engineering.
The thoughtful questions from the juniors and seniors sparked meaningful discussions about the skills and experiences essential for a successful career in software engineering and at DDI. The company stated that it is “looking forward to hosting more events like this” at local high schools and universities to inspire young minds and foster a vibrant tech community.
“I believe events like these are essential for high school students because they become more aware of the opportunities and choices that lie ahead,” Weimholt said. “These experiences allow them to reflect and make informed decisions in their best interest. They are the seeds of the next generation, and it’s vital that each generation grows and learns to achieve what the previous one could not.”
