Young girls in El Paso came together at the Young Women’s Leadership Academy (YWLA) to participate in the annual West Texas Girl Powered Conference. Held on the YWLA campus, the event saw over 500 6th-grade girls engaging in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) activities, with a particular emphasis on competitive robotics.
As the theme for this year’s conference was “Forging the Future,” the event aimed to empower young girls by connecting them with universities and industry professionals who share their mission and vision. University booths, a robotics playground, career exploration, and a game development workshop were some of the highlights at the conference.
Principal Malinda Villalobos expressed her excitement, stating, “As I talked to the girls coming through the commons today, they are full of excitement, and questions and inquiry.” The conference not only provided opportunities to interact with potential universities but also offered interdisciplinary activities such as escape rooms, art and music programs, flying robotics and drones, e-sports, and a mini theater play.
YWLA understands the importance of creating a supportive environment for girls to build confidence. These conferences are part of their ongoing efforts to ensure that young women gain the necessary skills and resources to succeed in STEAM fields. In addition to inviting local institutions like Texas Tech and UTEP, YWLA reached out to representatives from Fort Bliss and even Kettering University in Michigan.
To further encourage interest in STEAM education, YWLA will be hosting a series of open houses for prospective students in grades 5 through 10. These open houses will take place on November 6, 7, and 9, featuring parent and student tours as well as informational presentations.
If you want to learn more about YWLA and their initiatives, you can visit their website [LINK].
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What does STEAM stand for?
STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. It is an educational approach that integrates these disciplines to encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
2. What is the purpose of the West Texas Girl Powered Conference?
The West Texas Girl Powered Conference aims to empower young girls by providing them with opportunities to engage in STEAM activities, connect with universities and industry professionals, and gain confidence in pursuing careers in these fields.
3. How does YWLA support girls in STEAM education?
YWLA supports girls in STEAM education by hosting events like the West Texas Girl Powered Conference and providing a supportive environment where they can explore various disciplines within STEAM, interact with professionals, and connect with universities that align with their interests and goals.
4. Who can attend the YWLA open houses?
The YWLA open houses are open to prospective students currently in grades 5 through 10, along with their parents/guardians. These open houses offer an opportunity to tour the campus, learn about the programs offered, and get more information about the school.