One of the spare-time activities that I find extremely fulfilling is promoting science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) opportunities with children in my local community. Simply beginning the STEM conversation may be all it takes to kindle interest in an educational and professional path a child may have never considered before.
Oracle Academy offers a simple way to start the STEM conversation with their freely available "Workshop in a Box" options. These are easy to access through an Oracle Academy Individual Membership, and they make it simple for you to deliver introductory computer science workshops without any specialized knowledge. I found it simple to create my own Oracle Academy Account using my individual Oracle credentials and choosing my local high school as the educational institution. To do the same, use this handy guide to get started.
I'm especially committed to helping girls and young women embrace their aptitude for STEM-related careers and overcome stereotypes and obstacles (their own and those of others) to pursue goals in those areas. Women are still greatly underrepresented in technology-related careers, particularly in computer science roles.
Getting the encouragement to start on the path to a STEM career is just the beginning for many women, however. Once in the higher education system and even in the workplace, it's important for women to have an ongoing support and advocacy system that continues to nurture their interests, celebrate their successes and propel them on the journey.
The OAUG can help. Our new Women in Technology Recognition Program awards a young woman who demonstrates a passion for spreading awareness and helping other women excel in the areas of technology. If you are an advocate and a go-getter in the IT field, consider applying for this distinguished award by February 8, 2019. The 2019 winner will receive a complimentary pass to COLLABORATE 19 and will participate in the WIT event at the conference.
The Women in Technology Lunch at the annual COLLABORATE conference is one of the most popular events. In 2019, Sharon O'Malley Burg, Adviser to CACI and CEO of O'Malley Burg Consulting, talks about her journey to success as a woman in technology and shares tips for other women on a similar professional trajectory. Seating for the luncheon is complimentary when you register for the conference,(Seating is limited, so reserve early).
I look forward to meeting the 2019 winner of the OAUG Women in Technology Recognition Program and networking and learning with an accomplished group of women in IT during the luncheon at COLLABORATE 19. I certainly hope to see you there as well.
Christine Hipp, OAUG President
Email: chipp@oaug.org
Twitter: @Chipp123Hipp
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