Diana Garcia remembers looking around when she entered clinical research and not seeing anyone who looked like her.
For men only.
Garcia loves science, but that strong image is ingrained in her memory and led her to Girls, Inc. of Tarrant County. So the program coordinator is now sharing her passion for all things STEM with young girls. The recent opening of the nonprofit’s 4,200-square-foot makerspace and STEM lab allows Garcia to introduce girls to science, technology, engineering and math through a variety of hands-on activities .
In her role, Garcia is constantly reminded of her elementary and middle school days and how much the science-centered space she works in has influenced her life. Her friends are thinking about it, too, she says.
“We think, ‘Wow, if there had been a show like this when we were younger, where would we be?'” Garcia said.
Jennifer Limas, president and CEO of Tarrant County Girls Inc., described the space as a place where girls have the opportunity to experiment, take healthy risks and learn about STEM.
Walls painted alternating red and black, Girls Inc.’s colors, surround the STEM lab.
In a caged area in the center of the space, the girls learn how to fly small drones and jump through obstacle courses.
A drone flies through the drone zone inside Girls Inc. at the Tarrant County Makerspace and STEM Lab on Oct. 2, 2024. (Camilo Diaz | Fort Worth Report)
A room near the drone area is a designated STEM lab, where students learn everything from aerospace engineering, biotechnology and cybersecurity to math, robotics and geology.
Students can also learn how to operate a 3D printer, T-shirt maker, and large vinyl printer.
Oct. 2, 2024 T-shirt makers, 3D printers and vinyl cutters are set up near the back of Girls Inc. in Tarrant County’s new makerspace and STEM lab. (Camilo Diaz | Fort Worth Report)
“This initiative is not just about equipping girls with technical skills; it’s about empowering them to take charge of their futures,” Limas said.
We need more women in STEM fields, Limas said. According to the U.S. Census, women make up nearly half of the country’s workforce, but only 27% of STEM workers.
“STEM industries are rapidly growing in North Texas, a skilled workforce is essential, and we especially need to expand opportunities for women,” Limas said.
Jennifer Limas, president and CEO of Girls Inc. of Tarrant County, will speak at the opening of the makerspace and STEM lab on October 2, 2024. (Camilo Diaz | Fort Worth Report)
Girls Inc. is committed to closing the gender gap in STEM, Limas said. Makerspaces and STEM labs are one-way traffic. The other one is through Eureka! This program stimulates students’ interest and increases their confidence and skills in STEM.
Girls in grades 3 through 12 will be visiting the STEM lab, something Garcia is looking forward to. You might think that a third grader and a high school senior have nothing in common, but that’s not the case, she says.
“When it comes to STEM, they are, they really are,” Garcia said.
Jacob Sanchez is a senior education reporter at The Fort Worth Report. Contact jacob.sanchez@fortworthreport.org or @_jacob_sanchez. At The Fort Worth Report, news decisions are made independent of board members and financial supporters. Learn more about our editorial independence policy.
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