Today marks an exciting milestone for our community as we re-launch the all-girls FTC robotics program! The energy is palpable as we prepare to inspire and empower a new group of 7th-grade girls through hands-on STEM education. As a coach, my heart swells with pride, remembering the incredible journey of our previous team, #14819, and the remarkable successes we achieved together.
Reflecting on Our Successes
Team #14819 set a high standard for what young girls can achieve when given the tools, resources, and support to explore STEM fields. Our collaboration with the NJIT Makerspace was a game-changer. The moment the Makerspace opened its doors, we eagerly sought their expertise. They welcomed us with open arms, providing access to state-of-the-art equipment and the knowledge of skilled teachers.
Our team members dove into learning 3D printing, laser cutting, and field-building, developing skills that not only enhanced our robotics capabilities but also ignited their passion for engineering and technology. It was this relationship that helped us clinch the Connect Award—a testament to the power of collaboration and community.
Even during the challenging times of the lockdown, we kept our spirits high. Meeting online, we continued to create and innovate, designing 3D chess pieces and launching a competition for custom chess boards. We even printed game elements for our robotics field, never allowing the obstacles to dampen our enthusiasm. These experiences strengthened our bond and deepened our commitment to STEM.
A New Chapter Begins
Now, I am thrilled to begin a new chapter, coaching another group of remarkable 7th-grade girls. This year, we’re expanding our reach by partnering with the NJIT Gear Up program. Together, we’ll be working in my classroom after school from Monday to Wednesday, building on the legacy of our past teams while forging new paths of exploration and discovery.
Our plans are ambitious: we aim to participate in all six of the FTC competitions this season, bringing our innovative spirit and determination to each event. These competitions are not just about winning—they are about learning, growing, and demonstrating what girls can achieve in STEM when given the opportunity.
Calling All Female STEM Professionals: We Need You!
As we embark on this journey, we recognize that mentorship is key to our success. We are calling on female STEM professionals to join us as mentors. Your experience and guidance can make a world of difference in the lives of these young girls. By sharing your knowledge, you’ll help them see the vast possibilities in STEM fields and inspire them to pursue their dreams with confidence.
Supporting the Future of Women in STEM
We also humbly ask for your financial support. Running a robotics program, especially one as ambitious as ours, requires resources—materials, travel expenses, competition fees, and more. Every donation, no matter the size, helps us provide these girls with the tools they need to succeed. Your support ensures that we can continue to offer this life-changing program to future generations of girls, empowering them to become the leaders, innovators, and engineers of tomorrow.
Thank you for believing in the potential of young girls in STEM. Together, we can make a lasting impact and open doors to a world of possibilities for these bright, talented students. Let’s show them that there are no limits to what they can achieve!
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