WIE RISE! An Introduction to Engineering Research (Virtual)

Summer 2026 Program Information

Program Overview

This virtual program, hosted by current Maryland Engineering students, was initiated through the RISE Program (the Clark School’s Leadership Academy) in partnership with the Women in Engineering (WIE) Program. This program is for rising 9th - 12th grade students and provides an introduction to engineering through the field of research. Students will explore different engineering disciplines each day of the week as they learn about various engineering research labs at the University of Maryland. Students will learn the various aspects of scientific research papers, participate in asynchronous at-home friendly experiments, and engage with current Maryland Engineering undergraduate students. The entire program will be conducted virtually. Our programs are open to all students!

Program Curriculum

Each day you will engage with different engineering disciplines (Aerospace, Bioengineering, Chemical, Civil & Environmental, Electrical and Computer, Fire Protection, Materials Science, Mechanical) through virtual lab tours and demos as well as learn about the various aspects of scientific research papers.

Program Goals

• Introduce high school students to various engineering majors through the field of engineering research
• Showcase the interdisciplinary nature of engineering
• Explore the various aspects of scientific research

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

Program Dates

Dates: Monday July 27 - Friday July 31, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM ET daily

Program Cost

The Summer 2026 program cost per student is $25. 

The WIE 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 decisions are made, participants will receive information on scholarship opportunities as well as payment procedures.

Cancellation Policy: Once you have registered and paid for WIE RISE, we will not be able to refund your payment if your student is no longer able to attend.

In order to complete the hands-on activities, participants should plan to gather basic materials that can be found around the home.  A materials lists will be sent prior to the start of the program. 

Technical Requirements

Participation in this virtual program will require:

• Laptop Computer, Desktop Computer, or Tablet.
• Broadband (high-speed) Internet connection with a consistent minimum speed of 1.5 Mbps.
• A Webcam and/or Microphone for use during live sessions on Zoom .  
• Access to a web browser on the device as well as Zoom.

Please note that the virtual sessions will not be recorded, so participation is synchronous/live. This program is entirely virtual and there are no in-person sessions for this program.

Program Application

To apply for WIE RISE! An Introduction to Engineering Research, please visit:  go.umd.edu/2026WIERISE

As part of the application, you will be prompted to share about your interest in engineering and the WIE RISE program.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all spots are filled, with a best consideration deadline of April 25, 2026.

Application status responses for all applications received by the April 25th best consideration date will be emailed by May 30, 2026. 

Applications received after the best consideration date of April 25, 2026 will be reviewed weekly as space is available.

Contact Information