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STEAMing Ahead: 'Our Students Belong in These Careers'
In greater Chicago, Homewood Science Center's day-long event inspires young women to pursue STEAM...
About this update from Enbridge Inc.
STEAMing Ahead: 'Our Students Belong in These Careers'In greater Chicago, Homewood Science Center's day-long event inspires young women to pursue STEAM careersNORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / June 3, 2024 / A hush filled the conference room, as 150 girls directed their excitement and focus to the task at hand: creating their own sugar scrub.They had just learned about the biology of skin and the science of skin care, and now they concentrated on crafting their own product, applying everything they learned throughout the day.The Grade-6-through-12 students were part of a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) day of learning held April 13 at Prairie State College in Chicago Heights, a city just a few miles south of Chicago and adjacent to the northwest Indiana border.The yearly event is billed as "a celebration," says Edie Dobrez, executive director of Homewood Science Center in Homewood, Illinois, which has hosted the day for girls since 2017. "What we're celebrating is the students, and what is possible in their future."Attendees come from 24 middle and high schools, all based in a region of Illinois and Indiana known for being culturally and economically diverse. Participants learn what a career in STEAM could look like-from working in medicine to engineering to physical therapy to the trades, and everything in between.Mentors from the community are selected to reflect the diversity of the student population to ensure the girls can see themselves represented in STEAM careers, Dobrez explains."Many of our girls come from disadvantaged backgrounds. They've never been exposed to these types of opportunities," she continues. "There's a lot of talk about getting more women in STEAM roles, about a more diverse workforce. But what is happening to make that happen? Girls STEAM Celebration is our answer, thanks to support from sponsors like Enbridge."Dobrez believes that to diversify STEAM professions, students need access to opportunities from an early age-which is why the celebration is open to middle school students. The event's aim is ultimately to spark girls' interest in STEAM professions and to build their confidence."We want them to see that they belong in STEAM careers," Dobrez says.Event sponsorships ensure the celebration is free for participants. Enbridge contributed a $10,000 Fueling Futures grant to the center this year-and we've sup...