WIE emPower!

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Program Overview

The Women in Engineering Program in the A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland (UMD) is excited to offer the WIE emPower summer program designed for rising 7th and 8th grade girls, but open to all gender identities, who are interested in exploring engineering through hands-on making.  This week-long, commuter summer program aims to strengthen participants’ sense of confidence and ability as well as teamwork skills as they learn how to use power tools and explore engineering concepts to create their take home projects. Participants are introduced to the field of engineering through engaging lessons and hands-on projects as well as conversations with faculty, staff, and students in the Clark School of Engineering.

Program Curriculum

Participants in WIE emPower will gain hands-on experience using power tools and engineering concepts as they create a take home project.  Undergraduate engineering students will serve as summer program interns and provide support, guidance, and encouragement to provide participants an enriching experience.  

Please note that safety is our first priority and any behavior that puts our program participants, staff, or administration at risk will not be tolerated.  

Typical Day

Please note that this serves as an example of a typical day. Specific activities and times are subject to change. 

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM   Instruction and Project Work
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM   Lunch
1:00 PM - 3:30 PM      Instruction and Project Work

Program Goals

  • Enhance self-efficacy through building independence and confidence
  • Strengthen teamwork skills
  • Build enthusiasm in the possibility of pursuing a career in engineering
  • Provide mentorship and role models to participants who are interested in STEM fields

*This is not a credit bearing program. It is meant to introduce middle school students to engineering and the interdisciplinary nature of the profession.  Participation in WIE emPower does not guarantee admission to the University of Maryland.

Apply for WIE emPower!
Dates:  Monday July 15 - Friday July 19, 2024
Daily Hours:  9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
For rising 7th and 8th grade students
 
*Please note that this program does not offer before or after-care options. Therefore, we kindly ask you to plan your schedule accordingly.  
The Summer 2024 program cost per student is $600. This fee covers all project materials and activities. Students should plan to bring their own lunch from home. Transportation to and from the program is not included. All travel arrangements are to be made by the student and their families as we do not offer transportation to and from the program. Participants are required to be signed in and signed out of the program each day by an authorized adult. Please note that this program does not offer before or after-care options.
 
The Women in Engineering Program is committed to providing access to our programs independent of an individual's financial circumstances. Scholarships are available to admitted participants with demonstrated financial need. Once admission notifications are made, participants will receive information on scholarship opportunities as well as payment procedures.
 
Cancellation Policy:  Once registration is complete and you have submitted payment for WIE emPower, we will not be able to refund your payment if your student is no longer able to attend.
To apply for WIE emPower! , please visit: go.umd.edu/WIEemPower2024
 
As part of the application, you will be prompted to:
 
  • Share about your interest in engineering and the WIE emPower program.
  • Explain why you feel diversity, equity, and inclusion are important to the engineering community.
  • Upload a recent report card with 2023-2024 grades.
  • Submit an online STEM teacher recommendation form.
Application Deadline for Best Consideration: March 1, 2024
Application Status Response: March 29, 2024
We are still accepting applications! Applications received after the best consideration date will be reviewed on a rolling basis as space is available.

Contact Information

Jen Bishop
Assistant Director, Outreach and Recruitment 
Women in Engineering Program
Phone: 301-405-0315
Email: jbishop6@umd.edu
 

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