What you need to know
- Microsoft and the Girls Scouts of USA have partnered together to offer free STEM badge workshops.
- There are five different STEM-related badges available.
- Both organizations aim to close the gender gap in STEM fields.
Microsoft and the Girls Scouts of USA will offer free STEM badge workshops around the United States (via Thurrott.com). The workshops aim to help close the gender gap in STEM fields. Microsoft outlines the program and shares people's first-hand experiences with it in a news post.
Sandra Andrews of Microsoft Store says, "This partnership empowers girls to achieve more through digital skills and provides role models to look up to so they can become leaders of the future." Andrews also says that "The ability to activate those troops with amazing hands-on technology and help all demographic and economic groups with digital skills really makes this partnership special."
The workshops will include the opportunity for girls to earn five different badges, including computer expertise, digital photography, movie-making, and two in robotics. The workshops are available for Daisies, Brownies, Juniors, and Cadettes.
Mari Townsend, a Girl Scouts girl engagement consultant, says in the news post "I always say to my girls, 'I'm opening this door for you, but it's about what you do after the door is opened.'"
In addition to the badge workshops, Microsoft and the Girl Scouts of USA will launch a leadership series with former Girl Scouts and female STEM experts to inspire Girl Scouts to pursue an education and career in STEM fields.
