Chabot Space & Science Center is working to change these statistics with Techbridge, an after-school program that encourages girls in science, technology and engineering. Chabot just received a $2 million grant from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation that will allow Chabot to continue the Techbridge after-school programs with an enhanced program model, and also expand over time to serve new schools both locally and nationally.

Originally funded by the National Science Foundation, Techbridge was a model demonstration program that engaged teachers, families, role models and peer support networks in keeping girls interested and involved in technology. In programs hosted before and after school in the Oakland Unified School District, girls were introduced to various applications of technology that appealed to their interests. The girls worked on a wide range of projects, including Web page design, programming, digital storytelling, building robots, animation and career exploration.

The key to Techbridge is that it builds on girls' interests and invites their input on program design. The program is both educational and fun. Girls say that they enjoy the chance to work in the company of other girls, and feel more confident expressing themselves and working on challenging projects.

Students also learn that it takes more than technical skills to be successful in today's work force. Girls are encouraged to take on leadership roles, polish their presentation skills, and work cooperatively in teams. Teachers have noticed a difference in girls' behavior as a result of Techbridge -- an increase in confidence that, in some instances, transfers to coed classrooms.

In addition to hands-on projects, Techbridge also provides field trips and role models, which encourage students to consider a career in technology or science. Students have been treated to behind-the-scenes tours of Pixar Animation Studios, Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Autodesk, which inspired several students to consider careers in technology and engineering.

"We're looking forward to introducing even more role models and field trips to help students explore career options in the coming year," said Linda Kekelis, project director. "We work with girls at a critical period when they have important decisions to make that will affect their academic success and career options."

In addition to serving students in Oakland public schools, Techbridge hosts a program for students at the California School for the Blind.

"This very successful partnership has been in operation for five years, and we are looking forward to working with the students and staff at the California School for the Blind for many more years to come," said Etta Heber, director of programs for the facility.

"After seeing what students have accomplished in Techbridge, I will never say what they can't do," said teacher Marcia Vickroy.

The Techbridge staff is looking ahead to the coming school year and hopes to introduce many more girls to the wonders of science, technology and engineering.

See www.chabotspace.org/visit/programs/techbridge.asp or call (510) 336-7382 for more information on Techbridge.

To reach Judyth Collin, Marketing Coordinator of Chabot Space & Science Center, send e-mail to jcooin@chabotspace.org or call (510) 336-7310.

Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Boulevard, Oakland
(510) 336-7300
(510) 336-7491 Fax
www.chabotspace.org