EdgeLink Supports ChickTech at MidSummer Picnic

On July 26, 2014, I had the great experience to volunteer for ChickTech at their MidSummer Picnic.  EdgeLink encourages all its employees to get involved with organizations or programs that are important to them or that they are passionate about.  This was the first ChickTech event that I was a part of – but is sure not to be the last.  

I met with one of their coordinators earlier in the summer and decided I wanted to be a part of what they had going on. I don’t come from a tech background but they were able to put me to work in other areas. I have had a chance to meet with mentors in the program, sponsors, board members, all of which are volunteers and enjoy spending time encouraging and inspiring these kids.

A little background: ChickTech is an organization dedicated to retaining women in the technology workforce and increasing the number of women and girls pursuing technology-based careers.  After all (according to the ChickTech website):

• Women only hold 25% or fewer positions in engineering and computer science-related fields.
• In 2008, women made up only about a fifth of computer programmers and engineers in the workforce.
• Girls perform just as well as boys in math classes and earn just as many math and science credits.  They also earn slightly higher grades.

ChickTech expands heir mission through events and training’s around the community.  They partner with local sponsors to set up workshops for girls that give them the chance to build a website, design shoes and make a robot, just to name a few.  Where many organizations have application processes and hefty fees to be a part of, ChickTech works with any female student who is enthusiastic about anything related to STEM.

These gals can change the world someday if given an opportunity.  What is so great about Tech is just a little idea brought to life can change the way someone will experience the world.  Possibilities are endless.