EMPOW[HER] STEM Event at The DISCOVERY

The doors at The Discovery will open to more than just exhibits on Saturday; they will open to possibility.

The Discovery’s EMPOW[HER] Collective for Women and Girls in STEM is hosting its first Girls’ STEM Career Day on Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., inviting girls and young women to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and math while connecting with local industry professionals and community partners.

Throughout the day, attendees can explore the museum and speak directly with representatives from regional STEM businesses and organizations.

The event will include a keynote address and panel discussion from 12 to 1 p.m. featuring engineer and author Karen Purcell, alongside Madeline Churchill of Ormat Technologies, Taylor Stevens of Ainsworth Associates Mechanical Engineers, and Meredith Westafer of Tesla.

Purcell is a professional engineer, chartered engineer, entrepreneur, and author of Unlocking Your Brilliance: Smart Strategies for Women to Thrive in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. She draws on her personal and professional experience to encourage women to pursue STEM pathways and build careers in the field.

“We are excited to welcome girls and young women from across the region to the museum to explore STEM career opportunities,” said Heather Norton, president and CEO of The Discovery. “This inaugural event aims to open their eyes to the many career opportunities in the STEM field.”

Participating organizations include regional leaders in advanced manufacturing, mining, renewable energy, health care, aerospace and defense, STEM education, and workforce development. Representatives from the University of Nevada, Reno, Truckee Meadows Community College, and the Washoe County School District are also expected to take part.

Girls’ STEM Career Day is part of The Discovery’s EMPOW[HER] Collective, a program designed to keep girls engaged in STEM throughout their education. Support for EMPOW[HER] is provided by Ainsworth Associates Mechanical Engineers, NV STEM for Skilled Trades, Ormat Technologies, Tesla, and Lurieland Foundation Fund.

Admission is free for museum members and for all women, girls, and anyone identifying as female during Career Day hours. More information is available at nvdm.org.