InnovateHER Charlotte invites 8th–12th grade girls from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) to explore technology, STEM, leadership and innovation. Through an inspiring, high-energy day of hands-on learning and mentorship, they’ll discover how their passions, strengths and curiosity can open up endless paths in tech-related fields.
Technology is everywhere, and there are countless ways for girls to be part of shaping the future. But for many, especially in middle and high school, technology can feel like a space that was not built with them in mind. InnovateHER challenges that idea and shows them that there is a space for them in tech, a space where they already belong.
No coding or tech experience required. Just curiosity and excitement to participate!
The event is free to attend and we are accepting up to 200 students based on capacity limits.
Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 2 pm
Spectrum Center
333 E Trade St,
Charlotte, NC 28202
Registration will take place through participating CMS schools and school administrators. Registration closes Sept. 14, 2026.
To register, contact Lindsay McCleary.
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Charlotte is one of the country's fastest growing cities, welcoming 154 new residents every day, and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District is the 16th largest school district in the country. That same growth and momentum is what InnovateHER Charlotte brings to life for students. The event will show them that their ideas, creativity and problem-solving have real power to shape what this city becomes next.
Questions? Contact Lindsay McCleary.
Technology and STEM activities designed for exploration and discovery.
Designed to spark curiosity and confidence.
Insights into different tech industries and the opportunities available.
Panels and discussions with women in tech-related careers.
Exposure to local companies and organizations building the future in Charlotte.
Uplifting, motivating energy that shows students they belong in tech.
Partnership in all its forms makes InnovateHER Charlotte possible — and accessible — for students across Charlotte.
Support can go toward:
Women professionals and leaders in the tech industry are invited to share their path, their work and their advice. As a speaker, panelist or workshop leader, you'll help students understand what you do, how you got there, and why they belong in spaces like it.
Sponsors are recognized as part of the event and receive updates throughout planning.
Support InnovateHer
InnovateHER Charlotte is designed for 8th–12th grade girls enrolled in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.
InnovateHER Charlotte is free for participating students.
InnovateHER Charlotte can accommodate up to 200 students and will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Students should work through their CMS school administration to register for InnovateHER Charlotte.
Registration closes Sept. 14, 2026.
InnovateHER Charlotte will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026, at Spectrum Center from 9:30 a.m. to 2 pm.
Yes. High school and middle school students will have different arrival and dismissal times. High school students will arrive first at 9:30 a.m. Middle school students will arrive at 10 a.m. Both groups will participate in the main program together, including opening remarks, keynote programming, the fireside chat, hands-on activities and closing remarks.
Yes. Transportation will be coordinated through participating CMS schools. Students and families should follow the bus and field trip instructions provided by their school.
Yes. Students will receive lunch and refreshments during the event. Lunch will be provided before students leave Spectrum Center.
Students should wear school-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes. The event includes walking, hands-on activities and movement throughout Spectrum Center.
Yes. Photos and videos may be taken during the event for city, CMS and partner communications. Families must complete any required school or CMS permission and media release forms before the event.
Parents and guardians should review all information from their student’s school and complete required permission forms. Educators and chaperones will supervise students, support check-in, guide students between activities, assist with lunch and dismissal and help ensure students have a safe and positive experience.
Students who need an accessibility accommodation can submit a request through their participating school event contact. Requests must be received by Wednesday, Sept. 9. All requests will be reviewed, but specific accommodations may not be guaranteed.
No. Students do not need any coding or technology experience to participate. The event is designed to be welcoming for students with all levels of experience, including those who are just curious.
No. InnovateHER is about the many ways technology shows up in the world, including cybersecurity, design, data, artificial intelligence, project management, public service, engineering, digital media and more.
Students will participate in hands-on activities, hear from women working in technology-related fields, attend workshops or panel discussions and learn about different STEM and technology career pathways.