Inspiring the Future Through STEM with Isaac Kituuka

Isaac Kituuka brings a global perspective and a passion for technology to his role as a STEM intern at PartnerTulsa. Originally from Uganda and now studying Computer Science at Oral Roberts University, Isaac is dedicated to using STEM to spark curiosity and create opportunities for young people in Tulsa. Through his internship, he’s experiencing firsthand how technology and community engagement can come together to inspire confidence and hope in the next generation. Learn more about Isaac’s journey and the impact he’s making with PartnerTulsa below. 

Tell us a little about your background. What experiences or interests have shaped your path, and what are your goals for the future?

I’m originally from Uganda and currently studying Computer Science at Oral Roberts University. I’ve always had a passion for innovation, technology, and how it can be used to empower communities, especially young people. My journey has been shaped by a love for problem-solving, a deep curiosity about how things work, and a desire to make education more exciting and accessible through STEM because STEM is fun. My ultimate goal is to become a software engineer focused on building tools that positively impact underserved communities globally.

What’s your connection to Tulsa? What inspired you to pursue an internship with PartnerTulsa?

Coming to Tulsa as an international student, I quickly saw how energetic and connected the community is. And with Tulsa being one of the fastest-growing cities in America, I didn’t want to just be another face in the crowd; I wanted to contribute to its growth and be part of something meaningful. PartnerTulsa stood out because of its mission to invest in both people and places. This internship aligned perfectly with my passion for workforce development and STEM education, and it’s given me the unique opportunity to make a real difference, especially among youth in the city. Thanks to PartnerTulsa, I’ve had the privilege to live out that dream every day.

What has been your biggest takeaway from this internship experience? Is there a particular lesson, project, or moment that stands out?

My biggest takeaway has been just how powerful it is when opportunity meets access. One moment that really stood out was during an outreach event at the Tulsa Dream Center, where we had the chance to engage with over 100 kids in a single day. We introduced them to drones and talked about this exciting technology that’s shaping the future. At first, many were nervous to even touch the controls, but by the end, they were flying like pros. The look on their faces, the confidence they gained, and the way they pleaded for us to come back was unforgettable. It made me feel whole and deeply fulfilled. It reminded me that what we’re doing isn’t just STEM education, it’s building hope, confidence, and curiosity in young minds. We’re part of something bigger than ourselves, and that’s what makes this work so meaningful. To imagine that I get to be a part of something like this is unfathomable.

If someone were visiting Tulsa for the first time, what’s one local favorite or hidden gem you’d make sure they didn’t miss?

Personally, I’m a big ice cream lover, so I would definitely tell them to check out Marble Slab in Jenks. You can’t go wrong with a sweet treat there. But one of the most underrated gems in Tulsa is the Gathering Place. There’s so much to do, from riding scooters, exploring art, nature, or just a good walk with scenic views, there’s something for everyone. It’s one of the places that made me fall in love with Tulsa.