Gulfport Students Explore Artificial Intelligence at Tech Fest

Over 65 students participated in a free event at Gulfport Central Middle School designed to foster interest in STEM careers.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Secondary Education

Bold vector editorial illustration showing sculptural sound waves and fabric patterns, representing youth exploration of generative technology. — More than 65 Gulfport students participated in an AI Exploration Fest aimed at increasing female representation in STEM careers. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you believe early STEM exposure programs effectively encourage students to pursue technical careers?

Gulfport Central Middle School hosted the Techbridge Girls AI Exploration Fest, a five-hour event where students explored generative technology. More than 65 girls in grades five through eight used AI tools like ChatGPT to create music and clothing designs.

Why it matters

The festival provides early exposure to generative AI to help students build technical confidence and pursue future careers in STEM. Organizers specifically target this engagement to address the underrepresentation of women in science and technology fields.

The free event lasted five hours and engaged over 65 girls in hands-on AI learning. Data highlights that Black and Latino women currently make up only 3% of the total STEM workforce.

The players

Techbridge Girls

This national nonprofit organization focuses on providing STEM education and support to girls from underrepresented communities.

Gulfport Central Middle School

This educational institution in Mississippi served as the host site for the AI Exploration Fest.

The details

Students worked as AI detectives to investigate sensors and data while collaborating with mentors and volunteers. By utilizing tools like ChatGPT, the participants created original music and outfits to gain practical experience with generative models.

October 26, 2026

Culture Shift

The festival marks a proactive effort to combat the documented trend where Black and Latino women represent just 3% of the STEM workforce. By introducing these tools during middle school, the program aims to shift participation demographics before students enter high school.

Local families now have access to free, specialized STEM programming that provides hands-on experience with emerging technologies like generative AI. Students can utilize these sessions to build technical skills that supplement their standard middle school curriculum.

The takeaway

Early exposure to generative AI allows students to demystify complex technology through creative projects like music and design. Parents can support this growth by encouraging participation in extracurricular mentorship programs that connect students with industry professionals.