TECH TREK 2023
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 from June 11th to the 17th. The second camp held from June 18th to the 24th, 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, The Fantastic and Dynamics of Flight and Marine Biology.
This year AAUW Venice Chapter sponsored three young women, paying $1000 room, board and tuition for each of them. A generous AAUW member paid the $50 application fee. Two girls attended Florida Atlantic University. Emily wrote, “I had an amazing week at camp in core course marine biology. We dissected 4 animals including a clam, an oyster, a squid and a dogfish. It has been a great experience.” Mikayla wrote, “Thank you for giving me a chance to learn and have new experiences here at Tech Trek. I’ve had so much fun at camp and made so many new friends.” Peyton attended Stetson University and met some amazing women working in the STEM field. One of them was Kellianne Klass, a meteorologist who works for WESH 2. Peyton enjoyed building the solar cars, houses and cookers! She remembers cooking s’mores in the sun. She made a lot of friends and still keeps in touch with some of them. Her most favorite night was the professional dinner because she got to learn about the job possibilities out there and what it would be like to do those jobs.
Letters will be e-mailed to school principals, math, science, and technology teachers by November 1, 2023 encouraging them to nominate current seventh grade girls with interest in STEM activities, to attend an all expense paid camp experience.