'Chicks in Science' event promotes science/technology careers for girls

Event is set for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at MSU Billings’ Alterowitz Gym

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES — In an ongoing effort to encourage girls to move forward in science, technology and engineering careers, Montana State University Billings host its third annual “Chicks in Science” event this weekend.

The event is a one-day science and technology extravaganza that provides hands-on and minds-on interactive activities to introduce girls in grades 4-8 to various careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. It is set for this Saturday, Feb. 13, at Alterowitz Gym at the MSU Billings main campus from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is free and open to the public, but is especially designed for young girls. 

Kim Schweikert, Kids on Campus and outreach coordinator with the MSU Billings College of Professional Studies and Lifelong Learning, said the event is designed to expose girls to the fun aspects of science and math and encourage them to pursue educational studies in these areas. With about 50 booths featuring professional women currently working in those careers, girls also have a chance to build relationships, she said.

“Just as importantly, this reminds girls that you can be a cool chick and be smart at the same time,” Schweikert said.

Last year, the event drew more than 1,200 participants.  Schweikert said the goal this year is to have even more participants.  There will be several door prizes, plenty of chocolate and even some free manicures.

This year’s “Chicks in Science” will feature 50 booths with hands-on activities and each booth will have a woman who works as a professional in science- or math-related industry or academic field. This will provide one-on-one contact with important role-models who are also mothers, grandmothers, sisters and daughters with varied interests and life goals, Schweikert said.

For more information on this year’s “Chicks in Science” event, contact Schweikert at 896-5888 or via e-mail at kschweikert@msubillings.edu. More information and a video of last year’s event can be seen at www.msubillings.edu/chicks/