SCaLE: The Next Generation (TNG) is a youth-focused tech event—returning to Pasadena on Saturday, March 8th, 2025 from 11 am to 5 pm. This event provides a platform for the future leaders of the free and open-source community to showcase their innovative ideas, projects, and talents!
Mission Statement
To inspire the FOSS community leaders of tomorrow with hands-on experiences, educational opportunities, and interactions with industry leaders, igniting a lifelong interest in technology and open source innovation.
Teen Track Talks
The SCaLE: The Next Generation Teen Track offers a unique opportunity for students in grades 6-12 to step into the spotlight and present their tech projects and passions. In previous years, we’ve featured a diverse range of talks on topics such as digital art, game development, computer vision, robotics, mechatronics, and 3D design and printing. These student-led sessions not only highlight their skills but also inspire peers and adults alike with fresh perspectives and cutting-edge ideas.
Whether you're a seasoned tech enthusiast or just starting, the Teen Track talks provide insight into the next generation of innovators and how they are using open-source tools to build solutions, explore creativity, and tackle real-world problems. Students will have the chance to interact with their peers, gain feedback on their work, and develop their presentation and leadership skills.
The Next Generation (TNG) Workshop Space
In addition to the presentations, attendees are invited to explore The Next Generation (TNG) Workshop Space—an interactive space designed to spark curiosity and hands-on experience and learning. The activity room will feature various stations where participants can dive into different Linux distributions, experiment with open-source applications, and explore cutting-edge tech such as computer vision with OpenCV, AI, and generative art.
Last year’s workshop room offered a variety of hands-on experiences, including machine learning with facial recognition, digital art creation, and 3D design and printing, where attendees had the opportunity to watch their 3D models come to life. The Los Angeles Public Library brought their engaging neighborhood science kits, offering fun ways to learn about technology and science. Additionally, the Open Source Rover was displayed for a live demonstration, followed by a Q&A session, giving students the chance to learn about the engineering behind this incredible project.
While most activities in the TNG Playground are geared toward middle and high school students, we’ve ensured there’s something for everyone. Younger kids will enjoy working with Snap Circuits and Turing Tumble, fun projects that introduce them to the basics of electronics and mechanical computing in a playful, interactive way.
Whether you're attending to learn, network, or simply have fun, SCaLE: The Next Generation is the perfect place for young tech enthusiasts to immerse themselves in open-source innovation and hands-on activities.
How to Participate as a Presenter?
Students interested in speaking or exhibiting at SCaLE can submit an abstract through the Call for Presenters, which closes on November 1, 2024. To be considered for this event, they should select "The Next Generation" track. Presentation options include 20-minute or 45-minute talks, workshops, poster sessions, or hosting a booth. Selections will be finalized by early December, and all applicants will be notified by mid-December.
How to Attend/Register?
SCaLE welcomes school groups, clubs, and individuals to attend SCaLE. Pre-registration is required. Click on the links below:
- School/Group Registration Click Here
- Individual Student Registration Click Here
- Parents/Chaperone Registration for SCaLE Expo Pass Click Here
Registration is free for school groups and their chaperone. For individuals, attendees under the age of 18 can attend SCaLE at no charge. Note: A registered parent or guardian must accompany their child to SCaLE TNG and stay for the duration.
What are the Requirements for Student Groups and Chaperones?
Our recommended ratio for adult to student supervision is as follows:
- Grade 10th-12th grade: 1 adult for any number of students
- Grades 7th-9th grade, 1 adult to 3 students
- Grades 3rd-6th, 1 adult to 2 students
- Grades 2nd and younger, 1 adult to 1 student
More?
If you have any questions, please email us at youth@socallinuxexpo.org.
For those interested in helping to plan the event, we encourage you to join the scale-kids mailing list.
TBD