The University of Texas at Austin welcomed more than 10,000 elementary and middle school students to its campus on Saturday, February 22, 2025, for the 24th annual STEM Girl Day. The event, which has grown to become the largest of its kind in the United States, offered 180 hands-on activities and demonstrations designed to spark interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Students from across Texas participated in interactive experiences ranging from designing balloon-powered cars to watching physics and chemistry demonstrations. Despite weather concerns that moved all activities indoors, the event proceeded successfully with the support of over 2,000 STEM role models and volunteers from 180 UT Austin research groups, student organizations, area colleges and schools, nonprofits, and companies.
"This event is all about showing young students that STEM fields are accessible and exciting," said Tricia Berry, executive director of Women in STEM (WiSTEM) at UT Austin, which organizes the annual event. "By connecting students with STEM professionals and engaging activities, we hope to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers."
The free event was open to K-8 students of all genders, as well as their families and educators. STEM Girl Day is part of the Texas Science Festival and celebrates the international Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, which is observed during Engineers Week each year.
Presenting sponsors for this year's event included Halliburton, Hologic, Sprouts Health Communities Foundation, and Visa.