GeoGirls: “Earth Shattering” experiences pave the way for future generation of STEAM professionals
At a glance
Representation matters. As industry leaders it is imperative to encourage and foster welcoming and inclusive learning environments for youth. For most youth who attend a GeoGirls camp, it is the first time they are meeting and seeing women and gender minority scientists in action. Participating in this safe space and learning from professional women in subjects centered around science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) demonstrates that these careers are available, achievable and a reality for women and gender minorities.
For many GHD staff, participating in community STEAM initiatives is an important aspect of their career aspirations and passions. Creating purpose through community commitment while growing understanding of their work. STEAM education and awareness programs are especially important for women and gender minorities in these fields because these programs create more access and inclusive space to explore these interests.
Kaitlyn Trestrail, Delivery Transformation Program Manager, has volunteered for the past four years as an industry mentor at GeoGirls, a four-night summer camp operated within the Mount St. Helens Institute (MHSI) for women, transgender and non-binary youth.
GeoGirls provides a hands-on learning experience with industry mentors and teachers leading engaging exercises, experiments and lessons on various concepts in geology and earth sciences, biology, chemistry, ecology and others. In one of the camp activities, campers install seismometers and analyze seismic data that they measure by recreating rock falls and lahars – volcanic mudslides - down the side of a slope. These data could be used to refine how different seismic signatures can be applied to improve warning systems for landslides, mudslides and even volcanic eruptions.
Creating an accessible environment in STEAM
During the last night of camp, campers can ask the teacher mentors and industry volunteers anonymous questions. ‘Questions from a Hat’ allows campers to ask deep and meaningful questions that may not have been asked otherwise. Questions from your favourite day on the job to handling discouragement and bullies and mental health struggles, providing a safe space for all.
GeoGirls is more than a science camp for youth. It is an endless network of resources for young people pushing the boundaries of what they think is possible. It is a continuous experience extending beyond camp. Former campers reach out to industry mentors and volunteers years later seeking answers and guidance and acknowledge how their impact has encouraged them to apply for higher education in geology.
Why more spaces for inclusivity in STEAM matters
Many of our women and gender minority colleagues in the STEAM fields represent a small percentage of their graduating class, and while it has not completely deterred them, there is some certainty that having more minority professors, mentors, and classmates would have impacted our experiences in a positive way.
Taking it upon ourselves to be the support we would have appreciated having during our studies, our work with GeoGirls gives many young people the insight and the courage to participate in an industry that interests them, regardless of their gender. This program helps us to break down barriers with each camper as they explore their interest and passion for the sciences, something we can all truly get behind. It’s a very powerful experience, not just for the campers, but for me as well.”
GHD’s WING and the GHD Foundation
GeoGirls is entirely grant-funded, operating only on donations from the public and partners like the United States Geological Survey and the GHD Foundation. For many campers, this is their only opportunity to experience an overnight camp, as camps are expensive. Providing this opportunity is important to the GHD Foundation, which works to give back to communities by providing accessible education.
At GHD, we have an employee resource group (ERG) called Women in GHD (WING) dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive work environment empowering woman. WING focuses on internal employees’ career and professional development as well as giving back to communities including STEAM education, like GeoGirls. As part of GHD’s giving back to communities, WING organizes a contest called WINGS of Change. In partnership with the GHD Foundation, WINGS of Change encourages employees to nominate non-profits they are involved in. The winners receive funds to be put towards their nominated non-profit. GeoGirls, nominated by Kaitlyn, were one of the award recipients in 2022, winning AUS $10,000.
It is so impactful as an individual and as a woman in science. I love that we can influence young people, even just one person, and help them to feel seen. This confirms that we are doing the right thing; and that’s worth it in itself.”
Encouraging youth to learn about their interests
It is on all of us to create space in these industries for future generations. Many youths face challenges around gender identity, socioeconomic status, cultural expectations and traditions that can prevent them from expressing interest. Supporting programs like GeoGirls allows space for gender minorities to thrive and gain insight into their interests, which they may not have had the opportunity to experience elsewhere.
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