Career Ladder
Creative Tech Internship (CTI)
The Creative Tech Internship (CTI) is designed for teenagers and young adults ages 17 to 24 who are interested in pursuing careers or studies in tech-driven fields. This year-long program serves as a bridge between educational experiences and professional environments.
The Creative Tech Internship (CTI) is designed for teenagers and young adults ages 17 to 24 who are interested in pursuing careers or studies in tech-driven fields. This year-long program serves as a bridge between educational experiences and professional environments.
Overview
Interns meet weekly on Fridays, from 10:00 am – 3:30 pm throughout the academic year either virtually or in Downtown Brooklyn. They explore creative technology fields such as: video production, graphic design, game design, digital marketing and artificial intelligence. Interns will complete hands-on projects alongside their peers and mentors to build personal portfolios, and grow both professionally and personally. The program supports a range of learning styles and strengths and is especially suited for those who enjoy both independent and collaborative work.
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Application
This program is for neurodiverse teens and young adults ages 17–24 and by application only. New applicants to CTI will be invited to participate in an interview screening after their application has been reviewed. You will receive an email with instructions to schedule your interview. We accept applications once a year between August and September.
Application for 2025 cohort is open. Deadline to apply is Sept 15.
Program Eligibility
For neurodiverse teens and young adults ages 17–24.
The Creative Tech Internship (CTI) is for neurodiverse teens and young adults with foundational tech skills who are curious about careers in creative technology. This program helps you build real-world experience, develop new skills, collaborate with peers, and grow your portfolio, all in a supportive, professional environment.
This program is a great fit if you:
- Are curious about creative careers like video editing, animation, design, coding, or social media
- Enjoy learning by doing and want to build a portfolio of real work
- Feel confident working independently and as part of a team
- Are ready to take on meaningful, professional-level projects
- Want to grow your communication, collaboration, and leadership skills
“Participating in the Creative Tech Internship program has been so meaningful to my son. The structured and supported program, with guest speakers and group discussions led by a social worker, has given him opportunities to learn and practice essential workplace skills and gain confidence in himself as both an individual and member of a team. In two short years, my son has gone from a teenager who liked computers to a young adult with a robust resume, thanks to Tech Unlimited! ”
— Parent of a 17 year old
FAQ about CTI
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How can I tell if this program is a good fit for my student?
This program is designed for neurodiverse teenagers and young adults ages 17 to 24 who are interested in pursuing careers or studies in creative technology fields.
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What is the application process like?
Applicants begin by completing a form, which typically takes up to 30 minutes. This form allows them to share more about their skills and interests. We encourage interns to complete the form themselves, as it provides an honest reflection of their abilities; however, some questions may require parental assistance.
The process also includes a virtual interview. Applicants are expected to be responsive when scheduling and coordinating this interview.
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Who will be accepted to the program?
Priority will be given to students who are eager to develop their work-readiness skills and are interested in pursuing careers in creative technology fields.
This program is not a good fit for students who are unwilling to collaborate, are not interested in the projects outlined in the syllabus, or require one-on-one support.
Spots are limited, and preference will be given to new applicants.
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What skills should students have before the program starts?
Successful applicants will have:
- An interest in developing creative tech projects
- Collaboration skills
- Started thinking about career pathways
- Foundational computer skills that they can demonstrate (ex. downloading files, writing an email, logging into an account, using Google Search, etc.)
- Demonstrated that they are ready to work in a professional environment
- Openness to building skills and learning new things
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What skills will students build during the internship?
Interns will gain practical experience in: Video production & editing, Animation & motion graphics, Graphic design & branding, Coding & game design, Social media & digital marketing, and Artificial intelligence & digital storytelling.
Working alongside peers and mentors, interns will complete hands-on projects while exploring one of three creative focus areas for the year: Interactive, Narrative, or Visual Art & Design. Each track offers immersive, practical learning to support future goals in academics, creative work, or career exploration.
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What will be expected of students during the program, and what is the time commitment?
Interns will complete hands-on projects, build personal portfolios, and grow both professionally and personally. The program supports a range of learning styles and strengths and is especially suited for those who enjoy both independent and collaborative work.
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Why is there a registration fee?
In the past, Tech Unlimited was able to offer this program at no cost, thanks to specific grants that covered all expenses. Unfortunately, those grants are no longer available, and as the program has grown, so have its costs. We now require a participation fee to ensure we can continue delivering a high-quality program and providing strong support to all our students.
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Can students earn school credit for participating in this program?
Yes, students enrolled in school with internship programs may be eligible for school credit. We can help in providing documentation.
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Can I use ACCES-VR or OPWDD funding to cover the cost?
Yes. We are not a reimbursable program; you will need to pay the fee and work with your agency to be reimbursed for the registration fee.
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Not sure where to begin?
Answer a few questions or contact us directly for help determining the best place for you to start with Tech Unlimited.
