Partnership Encourages Girls Interest in Science

Girls of Innovation is a day-long annual program that inspires today's middle school students to consider studies in science and technology-related research, health services and business areas.  Sponsored by the Connecticut Technology Council (CTC) and Covidien Surgical Devices and held at the Connecticut Science Center in Hartford, this year’s event will be on Saturday, June 15 from 8:30 to 2:30.

The Girls of Innovation Science Challenge is for girls, entering grades 7 & 8 in the 2013-2014 school year, to explore science and its challenges in a fun, interactive way. There is no cost to attend. Parents/guardians must pre-register participants and receive the confirmation e-mail from CTC.

An offshoot of CTC's Women of Innovation program, Girls of Innovation inspires today's middle school students to consider studies in science and technology-related research, health services and business areas.

Volunteers working with the girls during the day are drawn from the Connecticut Women of Innovation program and CTC membership.  They are there to talk with the students about their experiences and careers and to guide them through the challenges created by the CT Science Center staff scientists.   Working individually and in teams, the girls explore scientific concepts and do hands-on science.  Additional time to explore the science exhibits throughout the Connecticut Science Center is also provided.

The Connecticut Technology Council is a statewide association of technology oriented companies and institutions, providing leadership in areas of policy advocacy, community building and assistance for growing companies. Speaking for over 2,000 companies that employ some 200,000 residents, the Connecticut Technology Council seeks to provide a strong and urgent voice in support of the creation of a culture of innovation.

“By establishing Girls of Innovation, CTC is demonstrating once again its commitment to its mission, which benefits all of Connecticut's citizens. Girls of Innovation lives up to its name, and puts us further down the path toward a culture of innovation,” said Beth Alquist, Chair of the Women of Innovation Planning Committee and a Partner at the law firm of Day Pitney LLP.