Four years, from ages 11 – 15. That’s the narrow window of time that researchers say girls in Europe first become curious about STEM activities. After that, it becomes much more difficult to attract and keep them engaged in science, technology, engineering and math – and the many opportunities that STEM can offer them. In Spain, PPG is making the most of this limited time, most recently with our continued support of STEM Talent Girls (STG) and the ASTI Robotics Challenge.
PPG nurtures girls interest in STEM at just the right time
STG, organized by the ASTI Talent and Technology Foundation, is a high-impact, year-long educational program that promotes science and technology opportunities to girls and young women in three ways: Science for Her for pre-teens, Mentor Women for high schoolers and Real Work for university students. In addition to classroom activities, girls and young women have the opportunity to meet and talk with women who are thriving in STEM fields. At our automotive coatings sites in Valladolid, Spain, and Camarma, Spain, STG members engaged in the “real work” activities with PPG expert colorists for a STEM day packed with hands-on color experiments, department tours, presentations and more. Click here for photos.
"Valuable workshops like these and one day spent to breathe and live the real work can be a good start for girls to be guided and inspired by STEM reality,” said Inmaculada Gonzalez, colorist, Valladolid. “I'm very proud to be part of this program.”
Esther Mir, procurement operations lead Industrial Segment, EMEA, Valencia, also participated in a virtual mentoring STG Masterclass for dozens of girls to help educate, inspire and empower a new generation of women.
Similarly, as part of the ASTI Robotics Challenge, participants built a mobile robot, presented their projects and competed in a final tournament that tested them and their robots in multiple scenarios. Students engaged in hands-on learning experiences focused on technology, programming and robotics, and developed a range of skills including project management, entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity. This year, girls represented nearly 30% of participants.
“There are many things that can hold girls back from pursuing STEM,” said Jennifer Bayon, operation manager, SBBC Full Dispence Cell and LSS Coordinator, Valladolid. “The lack of female mentors and role models who inspire them top the list. That’s why programs like STG and the cooperation with ASTI Talent Foundation are so important. They help girls picture themselves in these professions. They see, for themselves, that women can succeed in science and technology, and that companies like PPG value their contributions.”
PPG´s community engagement program has helped fund these programs since 2018, including a grant for STG and ASTI Robotics Challenge initiatives during the 2022-2023 school year. The effort is part of our ongoing commitment to nurture children’s interest in STEM and STEM opportunities.