TECH TREK 2025
Through hands-on problem solving and experiences with women role models in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), AAUW Tech Trek encourages girls to explore possible careers in these fields. This summer two very successful in person Tech Trek camps were held for girls entering 8th grade in the fall. The first camp was held at Stetson University in Deland FL and the second camp was held at Florida Atlantic University in Jupiter, FL. The girls lived in campus dorms, ate their meals in the student cafeteria, and utilized the University classrooms and labs for their core classes and workshops. The camps were similar, but not identical. Core Courses included Qualcomm Wearable Tech, Structural Engineering, Neuroscience, Environmental Science, Forensic and Environmental Science and Marine Biology.
This year AAUW Venice Chapter sponsored two young women, paying $1300 for room, board and tuition for each of them. In her thank you note, Payton wrote, “Thank you for selecting me for Tech Trek 2025. This was a great experience. My favorite part was meeting new friends who are so much like me. Some of my favorite classes were Structural Engineering, Bullet Journals, Bridge Building and Archery.” Kaylianna wrote, “Thank you for sending me to Tech Trek Camp at Stetson University. I liked when I dissected a sheep eye.”
Letters will be e-mailed to school principals, math, science, and technology teachers by November 1, 2025, encouraging them to nominate current seventh grade girls with interest in STEM activities, to attend an all expense paid camp experience. Despite emails, phone calls, notes and cards, no nominations were received from public middle school teachers. All camp attendees were students who attended charter schools.