CENTER TWP. — More than 70 girls from eight elementary schools in Beaver County descended upon Columbia Gas’ training facility Thursday morning to learn about careers in engineering.
Called Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, the event involved the young women creating their own science projects, as well as learning about different career opportunities at local utilities.
Pupils in grades 3 to 5 participated in the event.
For the science project, the girls were divided into teams and tasked with using standard engineering techniques to build a bridge out of craft supplies and adhesive. Those basic engineering principles included proper construction techniques, measurements, budgeting, pre-planning design and stress testing.
The girls were given an hour to complete the project and were evaluated based on functionality, best design, teamwork and creativity.
In addition to the science project, the girls received a tour of Columbia's state-of-the-art training center and listened to talks from Columbia Gas leadership and engineers.
In a news release, Columbia President Mike Huwar said the event was organized and executed by company employees and engineers. The company employs about 90 full-time engineers, 28 percent of whom are female.
“We wanted the girls to walk away from the day with a real-life introduction to not only engineering, but the many career opportunities available to both men and women in our local communities,” Huwar said. “At Columbia Gas, we are dedicated to hiring, training and retaining the very best employees, with expertise in both skilled trades and as business professionals, to provide top-tier safety and satisfaction to our customers.”
Columbia Gas partnered with Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania to recruit female students for the event.
“We believe programs like Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day align with the mission of Junior Achievement — to foster work-readiness, inspiring and preparing young people to succeed,” said Bill Lucas, the vice president of Junior Achievement.
The event ran from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday.