Women in Engineering

Anyone can be an engineer, but not all students get the chance to see themselves that way. Through accessible experiences, supportive partnerships, and real-world design challenges, we help students recognize their potential and begin to build their identity as engineers, problem-solvers, and creators.

Inspiring the Next Generation


Center for Wildlife Forensic Researche logo

The Women in Engineering program (WIE) works with students, families, educators, and communities throughout Connecticut to empower the future of engineering. With the help of generous donors and groups like the Harding Initiative and Town Fire Tire, our unique program can bring STEM education to areas that need it the most. Our program helps students discover their engineering identity through hands-on problem-solving and practical engineering challenges.

Mission

We are a hands-on engineering program designed to introduce students to the world of engineering through real-world challenges and creative exploration. We aim to support students as they discover their interests, develop skills, and build confidence in their ability to succeed in engineering and beyond.

Our Work

A professor demonstrates an engineering technique for two students.

Since launching in 2022, WIE has visited over 25 schools and served over 2000 students. We have developed partnerships with community-based organizations such as ReadyCT, the Urban League of Greater Hartford, VEX Robotics, the Girl Scouts of CT, and more.

WIE also runs two low-cost summer youth academies dedicated to middle school students. To learn more about our work, please read our end-of-year report.

Read our 2024-25 End of Year Report

The Engineering Classroom Experience

Connecticut’s future in technology starts in the classroom. Our program provides free STEM-based lessons designed to engage students’ curiosity and problem-solving skills. Lessons can be adjusted to any class size and level, and all materials are provided. The Curriculum has been updated to better align with classroom topics such as:

  • Algebra with electrical circuits
  • Chemistry with environmental engineering
  • Biology with medical technology
  • Physics with aerospace
  • Calculus with robotics
  • Plus more

These hands-on activities are designed to instill a lifelong love of learning, engineering, and science in your students. Contact us today to discuss visiting your classroom!

Spotlights

Mechanical Engineering Major reflects on the opportunity to be a part of the mission of Women in Engineering

Mechanical Engineering Major shares her excitement to inspire young women in engineering.