WIE Empower!

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WIE Empower!

Summer 2025 Program Information 

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, though open to all, who are interested in exploring engineering.  This week-long, commuter summer program aims to strengthen participants’ sense of confidence and ability as well as teamwork skills as they explore engineering concepts through various activities. 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 with engineering concepts as they work through a variety of activities and projects. Undergraduate engineering students will serve as summer program interns and provide support, guidance, and encouragement to provide participants an enriching experience.  

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   Engineering activities, workshops, and tours
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM   Lunch and community building
1:00 PM - 3:30 PM      Engineering activities and workshops

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 June 23 - Friday June 27, 2025
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 2025 program cost per student is $625. This fee covers all project materials and activities. Students should plan to bring their own lunch from home each day. 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/2025WIEEmpower
 
As part of the application, you will be prompted to:
  • Share about your interest in engineering and the WIE Empower program.
  • Upload a recent report card with 2024-2025 grades.
  • Submit an online STEM teacher recommendation form.
Application Deadline for Best Consideration: March 1, 2025
Application Status Responses for Best Consideration Applications will be emailed by March 31, 2025.
Applications received after the best consideration date of March 1, 2025 will be reviewed on a rolling basis as space is available.
 

Contact Information

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

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