Women in STEM

IT STARTS TODAY

We can bridge the STEM gender divide

FIRST Chesapeake aims to empower and inspire young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. By providing mentorship, networking opportunities, equity and engagement resources, scholarships and hands-on experiences, the program seeks to increase female representation in FIRST programs and STEM fields.

THE SCHOLARSHIP

The Women in STEM initiative recognizes, celebrates and honors the outstanding achievements and contributions of women in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) as well as her advocacy for the promotion and inclusion of women in STEM fields.

Three scholarships are available for those who identify as women who are currently high school juniors and seniors and currently registered with a FIRST team in the FIRST Chesapeake District (FTC or FRC in DC, Maryland, and Virginia). These scholarships are made possible in thanks to a generous contribution by Dominion Energy

REPRESENTATION & RECOGNITION

FIRST Chesapeake acknowledges the vital role women play in shaping the future of technology and innovation and serves as an inspiration to the next generation of female leaders in STEM.

The Outstanding Woman in STEM Award is given annually by FIRST Chesapeake to honor a woman who has stood as an example of innovation, trailblazing, leadership, community-building, or advocacy in a STEM field. This award and today’s event is made possible through the Leidos partnership and support of FIRST Chesapeake’s Women in STEM initiative.

Finalists are announced at the Women in STEM breakfast all semifinalists are invited.

CELEBRATE

Announced February 8, 2025

SEMIFINALISTS

Invitations to interview will be sent in early January. All interviews will take place January 17, 2025

INTERVIEWS

Applications open October 4 and will close on December 15, 2024.

APPLY

A panel will review all application packages and determine the 8 semifinalists. Those semi-finalists will be interviewed in January to determine who will receive the scholarship. All semi-finalists will be honored at the WIS Breakfast event in April.