On Wednesday, March 13, Tech Girls ROCKED the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale as, for the first time ever, the Clubs partnered with CA Technologies to offer more than 100 tween and teen girls a full-day workshop developed to encourage the kids to discover and cultivate an interest in information technology (IT) and ultimately, in tech-related educational opportunities and careers.
“Before tech programs like this existed, I never looked into a career in engineering,” said Jessica DuBois, who was recently named the 2013 Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale Youth of the Year. “But after participating in these types of workshops and other programs like ECrew, I have become more creative and found new ways of solving problems. I now plan to choose a career where I put my math and science skills to work.”
The event, which took place at the Hartley & Ruth Barker Branchin Scottsdale, included career exploration panels, interactive discussions on key IT trends and topics, and plenty of technology-focused challenges to provide a hands-on experience for all. CA Technologies employees volunteered their time staffing the workshops as well as working with kids one-on-one throughout the day.
“We hope workshops like this at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale help young women who normally wouldn’t venture into a career in IT get excited and encouraged to explore the field,” says Lisa Brighton, community relations analyst for CA Technologies. “With this most recent event, we’ve reached 800 girls total nationwide.
Brighton notes the goal is to reach 1,000 girls and cultivate an interest in technology, tech-related educational opportunities and careers.
“All of our Clubs are always looking for innovative and inspiring learning opportunities for our members,” said Lauren Stratton, branch director at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale’s Hartley & Ruth Barker Branch. “Tech Girls Rock provides a fun, interactive way to empower girls to explore a potential future in technology. The exposure to IT professionals, who can offer their perspective on the role of technology, and guidance for those considering a career in the field, is an invaluable learning opportunity for these young women.”
In addition to Tech Girls Rock, the greater-Scottsdale Clubs have ensured a long-time focus on providing tech-related opportunities to both males and female members through several other programs, including, but not limited to:
- Skill Tech I and II
- Web Design
- Movie Making
- Design Tech
- ImageMakers National Photography Exhibit
- Music Making
The Clubs also offer monthly field trips to the Scottsdale Microsoft store to enhance technology skills of Club members with the latest software.
For more information on the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale visit their Facebook page at www.FB.com/BGCGS.
Contributing author: Alison Bailin Batz of HMA PR @abailin
Photo courtesy of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale