On March 27, 2026, Utica University hosted its annual TechHorizonU’26 event on its Utica campus. It brought around 50 students together from across the Mohawk Valley who were interested in computer science for a full day of hands-on learning and competition. Organized by the Department of Computer Science, the event gave students a chance to step outside of the classroom and experience what working in technology can really look and feel like. Throughout the event, students participated in interactive workshops and coding competitions that challenged both their technical skills and creativity.
A special thank you goes to Dr. Angel Rivera, Chair of the Computer Science Department, for organizing and hosting the event alongside his students and department, continuing to create opportunities like this for local high school students. Events like these have a real impact by showing students what’s possible in computer science.
One of the most meaningful moments of the event was the recognition of Mr. Mike Amante, a teacher who has had a strong impact on students through both his classes and clubs, as well as his involvement in the tech community. At New Hartford, Mr. Amante is known for creating a classroom environment where students feel comfortable learning, experimenting, and challenging themselves, both in his classes and as advisor of the Computer Science Club. At Perry, he teaches Technology B, where students build and code VEX robotics, explore electricity, and build flying machines like kites and rockets. At the senior high, he teaches Emerging Technology, where students explore modern tools such as artificial intelligence and drones while seeing how these technologies apply in the real world. He also teaches AP PLTW Computer Science Principles, which introduces students to the foundations of programming and computational thinking using the Python programming language.
What really stands out is his commitment to his students. This year, even though enrollment for AP PLTW Computer Science Principles was low, he still chose to continue teaching the course. This shows how, regardless of class size, he still values his students by allowing them to learn. For students thinking about taking one of his classes, they offer more than just credit—they give you real-world experience. His classes are a great option for anyone even slightly interested in technology, whether you’re a beginner or already have experience.
AP Computer Science Principles is not just for students planning to go into computer science. As Mr. Amante explains, “This course isn’t about becoming a programmer—it’s about learning how to think in a way that applies to almost any career. Whether you’re interested in business, science, healthcare, or even creative fields, the ability to work with data, solve problems, and understand how technology works gives you an advantage. No matter what path you take, those are skills you’ll use.”
That kind of thinking is one of the reasons Mr. Amante was recognized for all his hard work with the CSTA New York Computer Science Teaching Excellence Award. This award shows how much of a difference he’s made, not just at our school but in the wider community as well.
TechHorizonU’26 made it clear that the future of technology is not just something people talk about—it’s something students are already creating, especially with teachers like Mr. Amante helping to lead the way.
