More than 1,000 girls, parents and educators turned out recently for a half-day immersion in hands-on STEM activities at the annual Girls Exploring Tomorrow’s Technology Conference.
The event was hosted by the Innovative Technology Action Group of the Chester County Economic Development Council, and marked the 25th anniversary of Girls Exploring Tomorrow’s Technology. The annual conference was launched in 2001 to address the underrepresentation of women in technology fields.
“Reaching the 25th anniversary of GETT with more than 1,000 enthusiastic girls, parents and educators is a testament to the power of hands-on learning and mentorship,” Patti VanCleave, vice president, Workforce Development & STEM, Chester County Economic Development Council, said in a statement. “Watching girls engage with everything from robotics to broadcast journalism and seeing their faces light up as they discovered new possibilities reminds us why this program is so vital for our community and our future workforce.”
The Nov. 1 event was open to girls in grades 4 through 10 from across southeastern Pennsylvania. It offered attendees a chance to experience more than 100 interactive activities that connected them with industry professionals and career possibilities.
Among the STEM activities were computer science, engineering, robotics, artificial intelligence, healthcare, environmental science, and broadcasting, according to a press release.
The day also included several demonstrations including: NBC10’s meteorology and sports graphic design; 6ABC’s live shot transmission presentation; QVC’s simulation of an on-air broadcast; Delaware County Community College’s laparoscopic surgery simulator; and the Commonwealth Charter Academy’s Drone Dome, where attendees flew drones and participated in coding activities.
Since its launch in 2001, Girls Exploring Tomorrow’s Technology has worked to create engaging experiences that spark interest in STEM careers, according to the release. The program also connects students directly with female STEM leaders across diverse roles, breaking down barriers and expanding access to career possibilities.
Girls Exploring Tomorrow’s Technology started as a one-day conference in Chester County in 2001, focused on the computer and IT fields, according to information on the organizations website. Since then, it has grown its geographic footprint, attracting students from across the region. In addition, its focus has expanded as well, to showcase science, technology, engineering and math fields.
Source: Berkshire mont