STEM fields—those in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—traditionally have been a man’s world, but more and more young women are considering STEM careers, thanks to programs like Lanier HS’ Center for Design and Technology (CDAT), now in its 10th year and serving about 400 students.
“I chose this pathway because I had always believed I would have a future in STEM, says CDAT senior Lexi Ducote whose grandfather, a retired engineer, shared his love of STEM and his collection of drones with his curious granddaughter. “It intrigued me to learn how drones fly in the air and can be controlled through bluetooth, so I wanted to further my interest in STEM through CDAT.”
Teacher Mike Reilly says CDAT opens a world of opportunities for students. “We know that high school is the gateway to either college or career for students, and we want to help students to find their place in the world of STEM, from welding to biotechnology,” he says. A Georgia STEM-certified program, CDAT uses a project-based learning approach and gives students “voice and choice” in their learning, from game development and animation to software development and control systems.
Lexi, who aspires to be an industrial engineer, continues to build on her early interest in STEM… in the Engineering classroom, through internships, and in the community. Lexi says she is able to learn basic functions of mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering in class, then expand her knowledge of engineering and manufacturing as an intern in the program’s Makerspace. Technical knowledge and teamwork come together in FIRST LEGO League robotics competition.
Shanita Drake—technology staff director for State Farm IT—wants to see more girls like Lexi pursue STEM careers. “We love working with Lanier! Through our partnership, I hope students, who may not have gravitated towards a STEM career, are engaged and better informed of what life-changing possibilities exist within technology,” says Ms. Drake.
In collaboration with State Farm IT, Lexi is continuing to improve both her tech and soft skills, recently taking the message about women in STEM to about 100 girls at Lanier MS who she hopes will follow her footsteps in the CDAT program.