BAKER — Baker School students are learning more about computers as part of the science, technology, engineering and mathematics curriculum.
Under the leadership of Sara Uyehara, who teaches CHOICE Information Technology classes, students are learning how to build computers and effectively search for data.
"This gives them a taste of the possibility of careers out there," Uyehara said. "Having these types of clubs, it gives (students) a feel for what could be, and it builds their confidence."
Several high school Tech Team members are already leaning toward a technological career.
"I have always had a love for messing with computers," Sierra Brannon, 16, said. "I'm actually planning on going into computer programming and computer engineering (for college)."
Cole Briggs, 15, said he has had always "enjoyed putting things together" and would consider working with computers as a profession.
Juliann Dominguez, 16, wants to take such skills into the military.
"After graduation, I'm going into the (U.S.) Navy to do this," she said.
The teams, each comprising three students, recently placed third overall in the countywide, May 3 Tech Bowl in Niceville. Teams had to answer a series of questions using only the Internet.
It's not as easy as you might think, members said.
"You can't use an answers website, like Google Answers; you have to get it from the website," Juliann said.
"You just can't go on Wikipedia (.org)," Sierra said.
Being a Tech Team member has been eye opening for members like Ethan Nunley.
"I didn't like computers until, like Olivia (Hurley), I got into STEM last year," the 13-year-old said.
Email News Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Preparing for computer programming, engineering careers