Girls Go Techbridge: An Overview of our Programming

The Girls Go Techbridge (GGT) scale-up project, made possible by the Noyce Foundation, began with two Girl Scout councils in 2008.  Five different program boxes, developed and packaged as portable totes of hands-on engineering activities appropriate for girls in grades 4-12, are now an integral part of STEM programming in fifteen councils across the country.  Our partner councils have exhibited a variety of effective ways to deliver GGT.

From migrant camps in Northern California, to week-long day camps in Austin, Texas, to Saturday mornings in Tampa, Florida, the GGT programs-in-a-box have been used in different places around the country.  Included in each box are the materials for each hands-on project and a Leader’s Guide designed for users with little to no STEM background and training videos that provide extra tips and show the completed products.

One council volunteer shared, “I love Techbridge. We don’t have to develop programs any longer. This organization has done it for us.” The GGT activities are field tested and proven.  As leader you provide the time and place, and have fun experimenting alongside your girls.

Role models are an important part of the GGT programs-in-a-box experience. By finding experts in science and engineering fields to lead an activity and share their personal story, your girls will have the opportunity to ask probing questions, be inspired to pursue college and future STEM career opportunities, and perhaps most importantly, hear first-hand that it’s okay to fail and try, try again.

The fundamental concept behind the GGT hands-on activities is the Engineering Design Process.  Through brainstorming as a team, designing, building, testing, then considering how to further improve, resilience is developed.  Determination, resilience, and perseverance are life-skills that will serve your girls well, regardless of their future profession.

In response to the programs, girls tell us: “I learned that this science thing is very fun and educational at the same time. I LOVE IT!” and “I learned that engineering is not just for men. “ We consider these reactions to be signs of a life-changing experience. Your girls’ enthusiasm for tinkering, experimenting and trying something new are the highlights you can expect when using GGT programs-in-a-box.

We are currently seeking additional funds and opportunities to expand our partnership with other Girl Scout councils. If you are interested in bringing Girls Go Techbridge to your community, please contact Megan Davis at mdavis@techbridgegirls.org or (510) 777-9170 ext. 314.