Rock the Future: CU, MLB and Rockies introduce students to careers in technology
The University of Colorado Denver, Major League Baseball, and the Colorado Rockies collaborated with the University of Colorado’s Outreach & Engagement team to bring approximately 40 students from Overland High School’s technology program together on Oct. 27th, 2026, to see how technology is used in professional baseball and learn how their interests could lead to college majors and careers in the field.
“It was an honor to host these incredible students at our downtown Denver campus,” said Tony Salazar, vice president for outreach & engagement. “One of the most important things we can do as a university is to tap into their interests and expose them to the broad possibilities of what they can learn at CU and eventually pursue as careers.”
The event began with presentations from CU Denver’s College of Engineering, Design & Computing, College of Arts & Media, School of Education & Human Development, and Business School. During the presentations, students learned about technology’s role across different academic programs and showcased potential career pathways. The students also had the opportunity to ask questions about college life as a CU Denver Lynx, academic prerequisites, and career opportunities.
The students also enjoyed lunch at CU Denver’s dining hall, which features award-winning dining food options, giving them firsthand experience of on-campus dining.
After their meal, the students traveled to Coors Field for a behind-the-scenes tour and presentations by MLB technology leaders, including an on-field experience.
Juan Garduño, a senior software engineer at MLB, and Dallas Davis, director of human resources and diversity, equity and inclusion for the Colorado Rockies, spoke with the students about emerging technology and its uses on game days. Topics included facial recognition, automated ball-strike system, cybersecurity, and cellular service, demonstrating technology’s role in the MLB gameday experience.
Special thanks to CU Denver’s Ashley Weatherspoon and Crysta Diaz; Juan Garduño; Dallas Davis; and Cherry Creek School District staff and Superintendent Jennifer Perry for their partnership.