For Parents — YTC Evanston

In YTC, students do more than attend meetings. They become part of a community where they are challenged, encouraged, and trusted.

They learn how to:

work with technology in a hands-on way,
solve problems with others,
speak up and communicate,
teach and mentor younger students,
take leadership roles,
and see themselves as capable of shaping the future.

This is a club where students don't just consume opportunities.
They learn how to create them.

What makes YTC different

A lot of clubs teach skills.

YTC helps students turn skills into leadership.

A lot of organizations serve young people.

YTC asks young people to serve too.

A lot of programs are adult-run.

YTC is built around students taking real responsibility — with support, guidance, and a clear path to grow.

Here, students move from Learner → Teacher → Mentor → Leader — and along the way, they help build the club for the students who come next.

Why should my child join?

Because your child deserves more than a résumé line.

They deserve a place where they can:

discover what they're capable of,
build confidence by doing real work,
find friends around a shared purpose,
explore technology in an exciting, approachable way,
and become part of something bigger than themselves.

A YTC student may start out shy, unsure, or just curious.

But over time, they may become the student welcoming others at the club fair, leading a project, teaching a lesson, mentoring a younger student, or representing their school in a global exchange.

That transformation is what YTC is really about.

What parents often notice

Changes that go beyond technology.

Parents tell us they see:

More confidence

and more willingness to speak up.

More initiative

and more responsibility.

More curiosity

and more motivation to help others.

YTC is not only building STEM interest.
It is building character through action.

The practical answers

What it asks, who's in the room, what it costs.

Time

As much as fits

The clubroom is open most days after school for student-run, curriculum-specific activities, plus one general meeting a week — snacks and refreshments included. Competitions, service days, and trips are optional layers on top.

Supervision

Adults present, students leading

A faculty sponsor CONFIRM [name] and adult mentors are in the room. Students lead it — that balance is the design, and it has worked since 2009.

Cost

Free

No dues, nothing to buy. Equipment is donated and student-maintained. CONFIRM Policy on optional trip costs, if any.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

My child has zero experience with technology. Is that a problem?

It's the norm. Most members had never opened a computer or touched a robot before joining. Some join because they like robots. Some join because a friend invited them. Some join because they're looking for where they fit. YTC gives them a place to start — and if they stay, a path to grow.

What does "student-run" actually mean?

Since 2009, students have held the offices, planned the year, taught the lessons, and made the decisions — with a faculty sponsor and adult mentors present and involved. One student put it best: "It's like the club has generations. Leaders change, but the idea stays."

How much time does it take?

As much or as little as fits. The clubroom is open most days after school for student-run activities, and one general meeting a week brings everyone together. Competitions, service visits, and summer programs are optional. Students with heavy schedules stay involved at whatever level they can sustain.

Is there travel?

Sometimes, and it's earned, optional, and chaperoned. Members have traveled to the annual YTC camp in Troy, Missouri; six students once went to New Orleans to launch clubs after Hurricane Katrina; and in July 2025, eight students flew to Namibia to teach in person. CONFIRM Permission and chaperone details for current trips.

Is this only for kids who want to be engineers?

No. Plenty of members discover engineering here — but the club's real product is confidence, competence, and leadership. Alumni have taken those in every direction.

How do I sign my child up?

There's no sign-up. They come to a meeting — or just stop by the clubroom after school. CONFIRM Any ETHS activities-portal registration or permission form, listed here with links.

Who do I contact with questions?

CONFIRM Sponsor contact goes here, plus info@ytcorps.org or +1 773-425-9569.

Why parents love YTC.