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LEHI — STEM, the acronym for science, technology, engineering and math is now STEAM. Some promoters of STEM wanted to add an A for art. They hope by adding art to the mix, it will help close the gender gap by interesting more girls.
Many businesses in the Utah community are doing more than just adding an A to an acronym; they are also teaming up and holding events to encourage girls to see a future in these core areas.
In December, Adobe teamed up with Microsoft and Workfront to host the third annual "I Heart Tech Conference." About 250 students from across Utah and Salt Lake counties attended and about half were girls. All eagerly participated in an afternoon of workshops including 3-D printing, space simulation, coding and creative design.
Batya Harral, 17, who attends Utah County Academy of Sciences found it interesting learning to code a robot car. She said, "I just love anything that has to do with computers, electricity and moves." Harral agreed there is still a stereotype about girls and the sciences. She said it's a good thing for girls to go into computers or robotics, but there aren't very many. "There's a constant reminder of, 'Oh you're not going to have that same female interaction.' Truth is that while it's (stereotype) starting to be broken down, but it's still there."
Vice President and Lead Council for Adobe, Wade Sherman said they are excited to see more girls at events like this. Diversity is one of their core values. "We believe it makes us better, makes us more productive, helps us build better products, makes us better workers," said Sherman.
Sherman also said Utah schools are not doing enough to keep this trend moving forward. "This is part of the reason why private sector companies have decided to step up and help drive forward this initiative," said Sherman, "Because we don't believe enough is being done in our school systems."
Orem High teen Rachel Hamilton agreed. She said some girls think they don't belong. "I kind of felt that in my engineering class," Hamilton said, "There were like four girls and like 20 guys and the teacher like segregated us into our own row ... It kind of made me feel separate."
The Women Tech Council is also doing its part. They sponsor an "Hour of Code" at local schools and other events to promote art and technology. Women Tech Council President Cydni Tetro said, "When you think about how do we get students into sciences, there are many steps along the way. We view the hour of code as that very beginning activation step where we get you inspired and understand that you can create."
Creativity seems to be a key component in getting girls interested in STEAM activities. Sherman said, "It's (coding) just not math on the page. It's actually this physical device that's following the rules. It's fun to see the light bulb turn on."
SheTech
Hands-on Technology Experience for Girls
UVU – March 3, 2017
1500 girls expected
Registration and Information
Erin Goff is a special projects producer who heads up the Your Life Your Health, Road to Zero Fatalities and High 5 initiatives. For questions, feedback or possible story ideas, please email egoff@ksl.com.
