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News Release

October 06, 2006

U of G Hosts Engineering Event for Girls

The University of Guelph is one of 15 Ontario universities hosting a free one-day event for girls in grades 7 to 10 and their parents, showcasing career opportunities in engineering. Called Go ENG Girl, it runs Oct. 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Room 1200 of the Thornbrough Building, with sign-in beginning at 9:30 a.m. Registration is encouraged.

An initiative of the Ontario Network of Women in Engineering and supported by the Council of Ontario Deans of Engineering, the program aims to enhance young women’s interest in engineering and encourage enrolment in engineering programs at the post-secondary level.

Currently, women represent just under 20 per cent of first-year engineering classes in Ontario, said U of G engineering professor Michele Oliver.

“There are a lot of stereotypes associated with engineers, and we’re hoping this day will help to dispel those myths,” said Oliver. “Young women need to realize it’s not just a male domain; women have a lot to contribute to the engineering profession and can help make the world a better place as engineers.”

Participants will meet female engineers and engineering students, learn about their experiences and take part in hands-on activities, including designing an earthquake-proof structure and chemistry related to toothpaste and cosmetics.

Presentations will be given by a variety of organizations, including Engineers Without Borders, which enables young engineers to help people in developing nations gain access to technology, and Women in Engineering and Science, which promotes and supports women in science, engineering and technology.