By building confidence, fostering curiosity, and creating access to future STEM pathways, Girls in STEM is shaping the leaders and innovators of tomorrow. Photo courtesy of Sierra Nevada Journeys

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Sierra Nevada Journeys is getting ready for Girls in STEM Camp. It is a transformative two-day outdoor experience designed to engage and inspire girls ages 10 to 14 in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Funds raised through programs like  Big Day of Giving (BDOG) support young women attending programs like Girls in STEM on 100 percent scholarships.

Held June 7 to 8, in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada Journeys Outdoor Education Camp, just 50 minutes north of Truckee, CA, the program offers hands-on STEM activities, leadership development, and a powerful speaker series featuring accomplished female STEM professionals. The camp is open to girls from Northern California schools who qualify for their school’s Free and Reduced Lunch program. Thanks to generous sponsor support, the program is offered at no cost beyond a nominal $20 registration fee, with meals, accommodations, and programming included.

It is a transformative two-day outdoor experience designed to engage and inspire girls ages 10 to 14 in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Photo courtesy of Sierra Nevada Journeys

“Girls in STEM Camp helps change the narrative by connecting young women with role models who look like them and lead in STEM fields,” said Krissy McGill, Senior Program Director at Sierra Nevada Journeys. “When girls see themselves reflected in these professionals, they begin to believe they can do it too.”

Campers dive into dynamic workshops on pond ecology, fire science, and teamwork challenges like the Alpine Tower, and they hear directly from women in fields such as aeronautical engineering, hydrology, and biology. This year’s distinguished speakers include:

Teresa Wriston, PhD, RPA, is an associate research professor at the Desert Research Institute. She will be sharing her expertise in geoarchaeology, hunter-gatherer studies, and climate change with the students.

Campers dive into dynamic workshops on pond ecology, fire science, and teamwork challenges like the Alpine Tower. Photo courtesy of Sierra Nevada Journeys

Vee Kamath, MOSH, BEng, is an Associate Manager in Tesla’s Environmental, Health and Safety department. She will be sharing the nuances that come with ensuring Tesla’s battery manufacturing operations are safe, healthy and environmentally responsible.

Anne Heggli, PhD, Staff Research Scientist at Desert Research Institute. As a hydrometeorologist, her research focuses on hydrology, snow science and high-risk weather.

Marlys Pryor, MBA, a retired aerospace engineer, has extensive experience in the development, certification and qualification of aircraft engines and propulsion systems, including thrust reversers. She worked for Rolls-Royce Aircraft Engines, Douglas Aircraft Company and General Electric Aircraft Engine Business Group, to name a few.

Robin Eppard, MS, is a part-time biology instructor at Western Nevada College and an active member of the Lahontan Audubon Society, which educates the public and works to preserve bird habitats and promote conservation.

Backed by evaluation data and student testimonials, the program’s impact is clear. “I learned different topics and careers that I could do in the future,” shared one eighth-grade student and past participant of Girls in STEM. Another camper reflected, “There are so many things in the forest and ways you can help keep it healthy.”

The camp is open to girls from Northern California schools who qualify for their school’s Free and Reduced Lunch program. Photo courtesy of Sierra Nevada Journey

By building confidence, fostering curiosity, and creating access to future STEM pathways, Girls in STEM is shaping the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.

Registration is now open and seeking participants; there’s room for 50 more students to join this awe-inspiring weekend. Learn more at sierranevadajourneys.org/GIS.