Expanding Girls’ Horizons in Science and Engineering Month

Expanding Girls’ Horizons in Science and Engineering Month encourages young girls to pursue careers in STEM fields.

This month-long event highlights the importance of gender diversity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Schools, organizations, and communities come together to inspire girls by showcasing the achievements of women in STEM, offering hands-on activities, and providing mentorship opportunities.

The goal is to spark interest and confidence in young girls and help them see the exciting possibilities in these traditionally male-dominated fields.

Reasons for Celebrating Expanding Girls’ Horizons in Science and Engineering Month

Encouraging more girls to enter STEM fields is crucial due to the significant gender gap that still exists. Women make up only 28% of the science and engineering workforce, with even fewer represented in areas like engineering and computer science.

By celebrating this month, we aim to empower young girls to break these barriers and pursue their passions in STEM.

It also helps address the underrepresentation of women of color in these fields, promoting a more inclusive and diverse future workforce​.

History of Expanding Girls’ Horizons in Science and Engineering Month

​​Expanding Girls’ Horizons in Science and Engineering Month has its roots in the Expanding Your Horizons (EYH) Network, founded in 1974.

EYH began as a series of conferences aimed at fostering interest in STEM among middle and high school girls. These conferences provided hands-on activities, exposure to role models, and information about STEM careers.

In 2020, the EYH Network expanded its efforts by establishing Expanding Girls’ Horizons in Science and Engineering Month.

This initiative aimed to build on the success of their conferences and create a broader platform to reach more girls nationwide. The month is filled with events, workshops, and mentoring opportunities designed to ignite and sustain girls’ interest in STEM.

Women still represent a minority in these fields, making up only 28% of the science and engineering workforce. With this observance, the EYH Network hopes to make a significant impact on girls’ perceptions and career choices, encouraging them to explore and embrace STEM subjects​.

How to Celebrate ​​Expanding Girls’ Horizons in Science and Engineering Month

Host a STEM Movie Night

Grab some popcorn and gather your friends for a STEM-themed movie night. Show inspiring films like “Hidden Figures” or documentaries about famous women scientists.

Discuss the stories afterward and share what you found most inspiring. This fun activity can spark interest in STEM fields and highlight the incredible contributions women have made.

Organize a Science Fair

Turn your home or school into a bustling science fair. Encourage girls to create and present projects on topics they love. Invite local scientists and engineers to judge the projects and provide feedback.

This hands-on approach can make science exciting and showcase the creativity in STEM.

Plan a Workshop

Set up a workshop to teach a specific skill, like coding or robotics. Invite guest speakers or local experts to lead the sessions. Hands-on learning experiences can help girls discover their talents and build confidence in their abilities.

Create a Mentorship Program

Pair young girls interested in STEM with mentors already working in these fields. Regular meetings and discussions can provide guidance, support, and inspiration.

This connection can help girls navigate their educational and career paths more effectively.

Visit a Science Museum

Plan a trip to a nearby science museum. Many museums offer interactive exhibits and special programs that can make learning science fun and engaging.

Exploring different scientific concepts in a hands-on environment can leave a lasting impression on young minds.