Meet Julio, our June Youth Highlight!

Julio is a rising senior at Springfield High School who has been involved with Connected Lane County for over two years. He started with Invention Club, an after-school program, in the spring of 2022, and that experience led him to participate in the summer cohort of Invention Lab. After completion of Invention Lab, Julio was invited to join the Agency, an after-school paid work program where youth complete small manufacturing projects for local businesses. 

Justin, our Associate Director and Spark Program Manager, first encouraged Julio to join Invention Club in 2022.  

“Some mysterious man (Justin) emailed me to invite me to join the after-school Invention Club. It was fun, and I enjoyed doing it. Once I got an invite to join Invention Lab, I knew I couldn’t say no to the offer,” said Julio. 

Invention Lab is an after-school program that provides hands-on STEM learning education to local youth, emphasizing bridging the STEM equity gap. Julio enjoyed learning about making stickers and 3D printing! After his first year, Julio returned for a second year during the Summer of 2023. 

“I decided to return to participate in Invention Lab because it led to more access to 3D printing, vinyl cutting, laser engraving, and a bonus I got paid! After that, Justin hired me to be a part of the Agency, and I was also invited to attend special guest events such as visits from Governor Tina Kotek in the fall of 2023, the Spark Fundraiser,  and Secretary of Labor Julie Su’s visit during the spring of 2024” said Julio. 

Julio has enjoyed sharing his perspective and personal experiences at Connected Lane County with a diverse audience. He has also enjoyed sharing input with the first cohort of the Youth Advisory Board, which comprises current and former Connected Lane County youth and aims to provide youth perspectives to the organization. 

After graduating high school, Julio wants to attend college and major in graphic design, journalism, teaching, or computer science.

When asked, “Is there anything else you want to share or something you feel is important we include?” Julio said, “Telling people where I work is always a pleasure! I love being asked the question, ‘Where do you work?’ I always have fun explaining that I use a laser cutter and do some graphic designing as well. I feel lucky to be one of the few youth who get the opportunity to work here.” 

During his final year of high school, Julio will continue to be part of the Agency and the Youth Advisory Board. We are looking forward to seeing what projects he tackles next!