LIFT, the Detroit-based, Department of Defense-supported national manufacturing innovation institute, and the Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan today announced that the organizations have launched a LIFT advanced manufacturing initiative aimed at encouraging local Girl Scouts in grades 8-12 to explore careers in advanced manufacturing and engineering.
“Partnering with LIFT will provide our girls with a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn from a national manufacturing innovation institute,” said Deputy Chief Program Officer Tiffiny Griffin at Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan.
The Girl Scouts’ Think Like an Engineer Journey, an extended engagement experience, consists of three hands-on design and engineering challenges and a Take Action project– also called service learning– to address the root of a particular issue relating to engineering to create a lasting effect. Upon conclusion of the program, girls will receive a limited-edition LIFT patch for their uniforms.
The Girl Scouts will discuss advanced manufacturing career options with LIFT Staff and industry members; an important dialogue as women are underrepresented in STEM careers. According to a 2018 National Girls Collaborative Project, women make up 47% of the overall workforce, but only 28% of the science and engineering workforce.