On Saturday, October 9, 2021, 114 middle school age girls and 50 parents arrived for Girls Make STEM with Heart student workshops and parent program, an initiative sponsored by the IEEE Foundation and taking place in Thousand Oaks. The 35 volunteers, which included IEEE members and local educators, came together to create a unique experience for girls and their parents.

Students could choose from workshops on chemistry, circuits, ham radio, light, robotics, solar energy, or math and numbers; with a focus on how these technologies can be used sustainably. With no more than six students per mentor, each girl was able to get plenty of attention and guidance.

The parent program combined engaging speakers with fun hands-on activities. The speakers for our parent program have allowed us to share their slides. Links are below.
•  Mr. Doug Askegard: Executive Function Development
•  Ms. Nathalie Gosset: The Female Brain
•  Dr. S.K. Ramesh: STEM Education and Careers

On our YouTube page, you will find a recording of Dr. Ramesh’s talk, and a montage of photos of the event.

This event is organized by the IEEE Buenaventura Section, with the gracious hospitality of La Reina High School and Middle School in Thousand Oaks.

The Girls Make STEM with Heart program was made possible in large part from donors to the IEEE Foundation. If you would like to support programs like this please visit the IEEE Foundation.