Who We Are

YWiC began at New Mexico State University (NMSU) to introduce middle and high school students to computer science in a hands-on, engaging way. Since its start in 2006, YWiC has expanded from summer camps into year-round programs, educator training, and tech-focused workshops.

Our goal is to help students build skills in coding, teamwork, and problem-solving through interactive activities and real-world applications. We aim to show that computer science is creative, fun, and accessible to anyone willing to explore it.

YWiC has worked with hundreds of students across New Mexico, many of whom have gone on to pursue computer science in college and beyond. By offering early exposure to technology and meaningful learning experiences, we are helping to prepare the next generation of thinkers, builders, and leaders in computing and AI.

Our Impact

Our Team

Kayla Wilson

Kayla is a Student Lead for YWiC, where she hosts summer camps, leads workshops, and organizes social events at New Mexico State University (NMSU). She holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and is currently pursuing her Master’s. Kayla has interned as a Software Developer at FAST Enterprises and Progressive Insurance, where she will be returning full-time after graduation. In her free time, she enjoys watching anime, painting, and spending time outdoors.

Renee Catanach

Renee is a Student Lead for YWiC, where she organizes outreach events, creates curriculum to introduce students to computer science, and promotes events through social media. She's passionate about helping students see that they belong in tech. Renee holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree. This summer and fall, she’ll intern with GE Vernova as a Technical Product Manager in Grid Automation. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, trying new foods, playing Tetris, and staying active through sports.

Allison Barricklow

Allison is a Student Assistant for YWiC, where she helps coordinate local school events and finds joy in watching students light up while exploring coding activities. She’s passionate about creating welcoming spaces for young minds to discover the world of computer science. Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity at New Mexico State University, Allison thrives on problem-solving and innovation through hackathons, programming competitions, and hands-on projects. Fun fact: she once had the unforgettable experience of swimming with a dolphin in Mexico!

Jarhec Arreola

Jarhec is a Student Assistant for YWiC, where she supports workshops, summer camps, and after-school programs while helping develop engaging, hands-on curriculum. She’s pursuing a Bachelor's in Computer Science at NMSU, with minors in Spanish and Dance. Passionate about tech education, Jarhec loves inspiring kids and sharing her love for computer science. Her interests include AI research and experimentation. Outside of school, she enjoys practicing Aerial Arts to stay active and creative.

Jade Collins

Jade is a Student Assistant for YWiC, where she supports outreach efforts and leads workshops. She's pursuing a Bachelor's in Biology and Computer Science at NMSU, concentrating in Human-Centered Computing with a minor in Genetics and Biotechnology. With research experience in both biology and computer science, her interests include UX design, bioinformatics, and wildlife conservation. Jade previously worked in an NLP and Multi-Model Interaction lab at Colorado State University and is currently conducting research in plant genetics and evolutionary history. In her free time, she enjoys wildlife and nature photography.

Genesis Valenzo

Genesis is a Student Assistant for Young Women in Computing (YWiC), where she helps organize events, lead summer camps, and deliver curriculum on core Computer Science topics, including Robotics and Artificial Intelligence. She is pursuing her Bachelor's in Computer Science at New Mexico State University. In Spring 2025, she studied abroad in Sevilla, Spain, where she improved her Spanish and immersed herself in new cultures. This summer, she’ll be in New York City for a Software Engineering internship with Bloomberg. Fun fact: Genesis recently started learning German!

Clara Chavez