Network with as many tech people as you can. This will be an important skill to develop when you plan to launch a successful tech startup later, and also help you learn about other interesting tech companies in your area.
Build a website listing all of your technical skills and interests, and mention this website to everyone you meet. Many people will judge you by your appearance, so dress conservatively and act maturely when you meet new people.
Attend local tech groups in Austin; there will be older tech people there who might have work for you. Mention to them that you're willing to work free, that you just want the experience. That way there's very little risk for them.
Introduce yourself to the computer science professors at the University of Texas there, and express interest in their research and offer to code anything they need for free. Consider taking a course from any of them that look interesting -- starting college early is very possible for mature high school students.
Another option would be to introduce yourself to local charities, and offer to develop anything they need for free.
Join an open source project that interests you. Work on developing a wide range of tech skills, and mention all of this on your website.
Slashdot Mirror
Linux open-source infrastructure: "You can build it, design it, and it will work great."
- Microsoft's General Manager of Platform Strategy, Michael Taylor
News.com interview on 7-20-2005
Network with as many tech people as you can. This will be an important skill to develop when you plan to launch a successful tech startup later, and also help you learn about other interesting tech companies in your area.
Build a website listing all of your technical skills and interests, and mention this website to everyone you meet. Many people will judge you by your appearance, so dress conservatively and act maturely when you meet new people.
Attend local tech groups in Austin; there will be older tech people there who might have work for you. Mention to them that you're willing to work free, that you just want the experience. That way there's very little risk for them.
Introduce yourself to the computer science professors at the University of Texas there, and express interest in their research and offer to code anything they need for free. Consider taking a course from any of them that look interesting -- starting college early is very possible for mature high school students.
Another option would be to introduce yourself to local charities, and offer to develop anything they need for free.
Join an open source project that interests you. Work on developing a wide range of tech skills, and mention all of this on your website.
With determination, you will succeed.