AIKEN, S.C. () – This fall, over 50 eighth-grade girls from schools throughout the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) took part in the Savannah River Site’s (SRS) STEM Like a Girl event, aimed at introducing engineering and IT concepts to young women.

Organized by the Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) Education Outreach Programs, STEM Like a Girl is crafted to inspire future female leaders in STEM fields by immersing them in hands-on activities led by women. This year’s event took place at the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center, located at the University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA).

“At SRNS, we are committed to equipping young women with the inspiration and resources they need to embark on STEM careers,” remarked Taylor Rice, an SRNS Education Outreach Specialist. “This initiative not only encourages innovative thinking and creativity but also paves the way for students to explore these exciting fields.”

Students were guided by volunteers from various site contractors through a series of interactive sessions. These sessions covered topics such as robotics, coding, and various engineering disciplines, including electrical, mechanical, design, and civil engineering.

Lindsay Minnick from SRNS Operational Technology played a key role in the robotics demonstration, where students engaged with wearable robotics featuring lift assist, Rubik’s cube solvers, remote control crawlers, and sensory wireless technology.

“By sparking that interest early on, we are preparing for a future where the younger generation can maintain our workforce’s knowledge and help bridge age gaps in the industry,” she said.

Paisleigh Hill, a student from Highland Springs Middle School, explained how the event and introduction to robotics inspired her.

“It felt nice knowing that the women making a difference at SRS are here today, teaching us everything they know about STEM,” she said.