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Okanagan College student Thais Santos Damasceno is one of four OC Computer Information Systems (CIS) students taking the lead in fostering innovation within the local tech industry through the Okanagan Tech Industry Night (OTIN).  

Damasceno’s passion for computer science has been a driving force in organizing the event.  

“I have always loved programming and computations, one of my favorite parts of attending OC has been connecting with a diverse community of people in the tech industry who I can learn and grow with.” 

The event has challenged Damasceno to apply her learning from class to find solutions to real world problems. 

“The problem-solving skills that I have learned in the CIS program have been instrumental in planning the OTIN event.” 

Bring members of the tech community together is part of Damasceno’s and her fellow student’s the motivation for organizing the Okanagan Tech Industry Night.  

“The event is a platform designed to connect students at OC and UBCO with companies and leaders in the tech industry, facilitating networking, cooperative positions, and job opportunities,” she said.  

Fellow OC student Daniel Tumback, one of the organizers of the OTIN event spoke to the importance and influence of the event. 

“Promoting the Okanagan Tech Industry Night will not only enable students to network and access leadership opportunities but also cultivate fresh ideas and innovation,” said Tumback. “Additionally, it contributes to the growth and promotion of the tech industry in our region, ultimately fostering significant regional development.” 

The event offers a unique platform for students to showcase their innovative projects, with a chance to compete for a $3,500 monetary prize in the Pitchfire competition. In 2023, student teams secured app signups and partnerships for their projects.  

Okanagan Tech Industry Night will be attended by sponsors 4AG Robotics, Vertical Motion, Skytrac, Accelerate Okanagan, Okanagan College and Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers. 

Events such as the OTIN are part of the hands-on learning opportunities that OC students experience to help prepare them for their careers. Dr. Halia Valladares Montemayor, OC’s Dean of Science and Technology, commented on the way OTIN enforces the College’s commitment to providing students with opportunities that support their learning in the classroom and in the community.

“The College is committed to guiding students through enriching experiences that will not only prepare them for their careers but also significantly contribute to their success in the evolving landscape of technology,” said Dr. Valladares. 

The Okanagan Tech Industry Night will be hosted at The Innovation Centre, on February 22, 2024. Opportunities for  are still available in addition to   

Interested in a career in tech? Check out these programs /science/computer-science