The objectives of the Young Design Scholars Mentoring Program is the establishment of a curriculum and skill development program for African-American, Latino and other underrepresented into the field of design. The objective of this program is to increase the awareness and appeal of 7th-12th grade students to the variety of professions in design and technology. The identified target group are those students in grades 7th-8th, or ages 12-13, but can be used for more advanced groups where design is a new curriculum or potential interest.

A major focus of the program is the historical, social and cultural contributions of African-Americans and Latinos to the development of technology and design. Particular emphasis is placed on the creative and innovative role of minority skilled craftpersons, entrepreneurs, inventors, scientists and engineers in the historical and contemporary development of America's technological growth.

Following this foundation emphasis is a series of design skill development workshops that focus on the basic fundamental entry level requirements for industrial designers. These basic skills address the knowledge and significance of math, sciences, and the arts to the practical objects and activities, that students encounter in their environment.

The program is designed to expose and stimulate the potential of these young students by providing them access to the tools and resources necessary to build a solid foundation for educational development in design. The program is structured to supplement high school college prep and art curriculum programs.