YPSILANTI — More than 500 young women were scheduled to attend Eastern Michigan University’s annual Digital Divas conference Friday to learn about technology — everything from how turbines work to how to become an airline pilot to how to encrypt information.
During the event, participants will have a chance to explore more than 20 interactive STEM sessions and network with industry leaders, professors and students.
“The Digital Divas Conference at EMU will provide these young women with a great opportunity to explore high-paying exciting careers in the technology field,” said Pamela Becker, a professor and interim director for the School of Technology and Professional Services Management in the College of Technology at EMU. “There are so many more options available now for women who pursue careers in technology, and women are highly sought.”
Opening remarks were scheduled with U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Dearborn.
“Digital Divas plays an important role in breaking down stereotypes by introducing young women to opportunities in STEM, and shows them there is no limit to what they can accomplish,” Dingell said. “It also helps show young women the difference they can make if they embrace science and technology instead of fearing it. Women have made unbelievable contributions in the STEM fields – from Marie Curie to Rosalind Franklin.”
The Digital Divas conference was founded in 2011 by Gerald “Skip” Lawver, former professor for the College of Technology, with the goal of connecting young women to opportunities in the fast-growing technology and computer science fields. Since that time, the program has grown to more than 500 attendees, representing 13 schools districts including schools in Oakland, Jackson, Livingston, Kent, Macomb and Washtenaw counties.
Eastern Michigan’s Extended Programs and the College of Technology are the hosts of the event. To learn more about the Digital Divas conference, visit the EMU Digital Divas homepage. For more information, visit the College of Technology website, www.emich.edu/cot