High Stakes Foundation

The Montana Automotive Technologies (MAT) program, housed at Sentinel High School, has grown into one of the most respected hands-on career training tracks in the Missoula County Public Schools system. Originally launched as an elective for upper-level high schoolers, the program has steadily expanded with strong backing from the local automotive industry and community partners.

Empower Montana was born from a simple but powerful belief: everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and safe in their community. Originally formed in the early 2000s under the name National Coalition Building Institute Missoula (NCBI Missoula), the organization began as a response to discrimination and bullying in schools.

Founded with a mission to bridge the gender gap in technology, this organization offers a supportive community and rigorous educational programs designed to equip girls with essential coding skills and inspire them to pursue careers in STEM fields. These programs are led by experienced instructors and industry professionals who serve as role models and mentors, demonstrating the potential and opportunities available in tech careers.