AT&T Employee Resource Group HACEMOS is helping put Latino students in the driver's seat of their future. The 19^th Annual National High Technology Day will offer students a look at the possibilities in education and careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.

More than 3,000 high school students will come together in 35 different cities. There will also be 2 events in Mexico. The day will include discussion, mentorship, tours of AT&T tech facilities and workshops.

HACEMOS has joined forces with Hispanics Inspiring Students' Performance and Achievement, technical staffing firm Kelly Mitchell, and AT&T Aspire. They will give students hands-on experiences that offer a glimpse into the opportunities STEM offers.

Students will also learn about Connected Cars and tour AT&T Labs locations. AT&T Labs employs 1,300 scientists and engineers who are bringing the next wave of big ideas in STEM from ideation to reality. Schedule and experiences will vary by location.

"The hardest part of entering a career in STEM is identifying your options," shared Emely Villeda-Principe, a recipient of the HACEMOS scholarship and 2015 High Tech Day Volunteer. "Everyone always told me I was good at math and science so I should be a doctor. I wasn't interested in medicine. I'm glad I kept looking for other opportunities. I found something that was right for me. That's why it is so important for students to explore their interests."

According to a 2015 report by Excelencia in Education, the number of Latinos in STEM has increased over the years. But, Latinos still make up a very small percentage of STEM professionals.

"We are committed to improving the quality of life in Hispanic communities. This includes bridging the gap when it comes to education and access," says Cinthya Allen, national president, HACEMOS.

More than 22,000 students have taken part in the event since the first National High Tech Day in 1998.

"Our theme this year is 'STEM to the Future/STEM para el Futuro.' We strongly believe educating our youth now will help them plan for their future," says Dawn Cordero, associate director, Global Command Operations, AT&T and 2017 National High Tech Day Director. "Exposure will help them understand the benefit of finishing high school and pursuing a career in technology."