Let's focus on a slew of Girl Scout STEM stories from around the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs that require computer and math skills are projected to grow by more than 20 percent in the next decade. Unfortunately, studies show that girls begin to lose confidence and interest in science and math during middle school, which is why Girl Scouts is committed to providing opportunities for girls in science, technology, engineering and math to help bridge this gap.The US FIRST website takes a look at Girl Scout sponsored FIRST Tech Challenge Team 18, the Techno Chix of Pleasantville, N.Y. FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Team 18 is sponsored by the Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson, among other companies, such as Motorola. The Chix started out in 2007, and went on to win the FTC Inspire Award in 2009. The FTC Inspire Award is the most prestigious FTC award, and is given to the team that truly embodies the ‘challenge’ of the FTC program. The ladies of the Techno Chix were also the winning alliance at the Hudson Valley, NY competition during the most recent FTC season.
In Kansas, The El Dorado Times reports that The Women in Technology group at Butler Community College hosted two events with Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland recently - Brownie Girl Scouts earned their Computer Smarts and Point, Click and Go Try-its, while Junior Girl Scouts earned their Discovering Technology and Architecture badges, learning about different styles of architecture in the engineering graphics/CAD labs.
In Pasadena, CA, The Whittier Daily News reports that Girl Scouts from throughout Los Angeles County and their families explored the wonders of modern science. The Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles hosted their second annual Family Science Festival, with more than 70 exhibits run by both Scouts and scientists, including several from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. About 1,800 people attended the outdoor science fair, featuring interactive booths teaching topics ranging from recycling to space flight.
Do you know any Girl Scouts who excel in Science, Technology, Engineering and/or Math?