Launching Young, Female Minds into Engineering

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Several students from Olive Middle School in Baldwin Park will soon have an opportunity to get an up-close science lesson and a possible future in science. 

On Friday, they will not only construct a spacecraft but also launch it into the air and discuss the project with Boeing Co. engineers. As if that wasn't enough, they will also learn more about exciting careers in civil and aerospace engineering.

The event, which was put together thanks to the efforts of District 57 Assemblyman Roger Hernandez, aims to stimulate the development of local students' education toward a future as engineers.

The activities are all part of the 11th installment of "Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day," a national effort that helps mentor more than one million girls and young women from kindergarten to 12th grade into engineering fields. The program demonstrates how engineering can be creative and collaborative and can ultimately change the world.

"This is the first time [this event takes place] not only in Baldwin Park, but also throughout the San Gabriel Valley," said Primo Castro, a field representative for the state assemblyman.

"It is important because they are going to discuss the importance of mathematics and sciences with the girls, subjects that are typically very difficult," Castro said.

According to Castro, engineers from other companies besides Boeing, the multinational aerospace and defense company, will also be on hand to encourage students, especially girls, to break into engineering careers.

In recent years, the number of Latino engineering students at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona has increased considerably. Of the 4,816 engineering students who attend the university, 1,479 — or 30.7 percent — are Latino, according to university figures. 

National Engineers Week Foundation, which sponsors programs like "Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day," is celebrating 60 years of highlighting engineering's contributions to society. Its efforts to reach children and young adults also include DiscoverE Classroom Visits and National Engineers Week Future City.

For more information on National Engineers Week Foundation programs, visit www.eweek.org, email info@eweek.org or call 703-684-2854.