California State University, San Bernardino is strengthening its role as a regional hub for technology education and workforce development through a growing scholarship initiative and a high-profile conference focused on the future of computing.

The university’s School of Computer Science and Engineering marked a milestone this spring as it celebrated the continued expansion of its ExCELS (Experiential Computing and Engaged Learning Scholarships) program, an initiative designed to support low-income students pursuing careers in technology fields.

Launched in 2024 following a $2.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation, the ExCELS program combines financial assistance with hands-on learning opportunities, including faculty mentorship, summer research, internships and curriculum innovation. University officials say the program is aimed at improving student retention, degree completion and career readiness in high-demand computing disciplines.

Now in its third year, the program honored 34 scholarship recipients during the 2026 ExCELS Scholarship Reception held April 16 at Coyote Commons. The event brought together students, faculty, university leaders and industry guests to recognize academic achievement and professional growth.

Students shared how the program has shaped their academic journeys, citing opportunities to participate in research, gain industry experience and build professional networks. Organizers emphasized the program’s broader impact on expanding access to STEM careers in the Inland Empire.

A recorded message from U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar highlighted the importance of such initiatives in a rapidly evolving regional economy. He noted that, as the region grows, programs like ExCELS are essential in expanding access to STEM careers and equipping CSUSB students with the tools they need to succeed.

The scholarship celebration coincided with CSUSB’s Defining the Future Conference, a signature event on April 15-16 that convened technology leaders, researchers and students to explore emerging trends in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science and workforce development.

The School of Computer Science and Engineering panel at the Defining the Futures Conference was moderated by Khalil Dajani, director/chair of the school.

The conference featured keynote speakers, panel discussions and interactive sessions examining both the opportunities and ethical challenges presented by rapidly advancing technologies. Attendees also discussed how universities can better align academic programs with industry needs.

Khalil Dajani, director/chair of the School of Computer Science and Engineering, moderated a panel, “The Future of Computing: Securing the 21st Century,” which included experts from academia and industry, such as IBM, the University of Southern California and the UC San Diego Supercomputer Center.

Panelists addressed topics including zero trust cybersecurity frameworks, AI-driven threat detection, generative artificial intelligence, quantum computing and high-performance computing systems. They also discussed preparing students for a workforce increasingly shaped by innovation and technological disruption.

“This event underscored CSUSB’s role as a regional hub for technological advancement and workforce development in the Inland Empire, strengthening partnerships between academia, industry, and government,” Dajani said.

Also held alongside the university’s Meeting of the Minds Student Research Symposium, the Defining the Future Conference created a campus-wide environment focused on innovation. Students presented research projects, demonstrated technical solutions and engaged directly with potential employers from government agencies and private industry.

University leaders say the combined events reflect a broader strategy: equipping students not only with technical knowledge but also with the professional skills and industry connections needed to succeed in competitive technology careers.