Lab engages girls at San Joaquin STEM event

The Laboratory participated in an educational outreach event held last month titled, "Engaging Girls in STEM: Making a Connection for Action," at the San Joaquin County Office of Education facility in Stockton.

More than 300 young women in grades 6-12 attended the program, which is part of a statewide initiative to encourage young girls and women to pursue education and careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) related fields. The event was hosted by the San Joaquin County Office of Education, State Department of Education and the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls.

A panel of women working in STEM fields was featured along with an exhibitor fair, showcasing various STEM programs and professions, such as LLNL, Association of Women in Science, CSU Sacramento, San Joaquin Delta College, University of the Pacific, Stockton Astronomical Society and the World of Wonders (WOW) Museum. Occupational therapists, engineers, microbiologists, neuroscientists, physicians and computer scientists also showcased hands-on, industry-based activities.

The Laboratory was well represented with a booth that featured 360 degree tours of the National Ignition and Additive Manufacturing facilities via 3D goggles, and a booth with giveaways and information about the San Joaquin Expanding Your Horizons conference for girls, which is now in its 25th year and led and organized by a committee of Lab volunteers.

Also featured was the Laboratory's popular Fun With Science program, presented by Nick Williams, featuring experiments involving states of matter, chemistry, electricity, air pressure, etc.

Employee volunteers included Cary Gellner, Carrie Martin, Norma McTyer (retired), Jeene Villanueva along with Joanna Albala, LLNL’s education program manager, who facilitated the Lab’s involvement.