Ossining Sixth-Graders Learn about STEM Careers through Girls4Tech Program

Sixth-grade girls in Ossining recently learned about cryptology, algorithms and digital convergence through hands-on activities, thanks to MasterCard's Girls4Tech program.

At stations run by MasterCard employees, the Anne M. Dorner Middle School students learned how encryption keeps data safe and how algorithms are used to solve problems in a series of logical steps. But most of all, they learned that STEM subjects can be fun and challenging and lead to exciting career opportunities.

The purpose of Girls4Tech is to encourage girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math.

Susan Warner, vice president of worldwide communications for the payment technology company, encouraged girls at the June 12 event to continue studying science, engineering, technology and math and to consider careers such as cryptologist, data scientist, software engineer and computer programmer. The possibilities are limitless, she told them.

“You’re going to create something smaller, faster, better than what you saw today,” Ms. Warner told one group of girls. “I can’t even imagine what it’s going to be.”

This is the second year in a row MasterCard has brought the Girls4Tech program to AMD.

Elle Ha, 12, said the Girls4Tech program was fun and she enjoyed seeing how technology evolved over time. “I learned that everyone can be innovative,” she said.

As for her future, she is considering a career as a software designer. “Sometimes I see websites and I ask myself what I would change about them,” she said.

Jennifer Vivar, 12, said she loved the MasterCard program. What she found most interesting was the expansion of what phones have been used for in recent years. Today’s smartphones are an example of digital convergence.

Jennifer wants to be a businesswoman and create her own company. She plans to study engineering and technology to help her reach that goal. “Technology is an important resource and it’s something that helps us in many ways,” she said.

Since the program was launched in 2015, Girls4Tech has reached 23,000 girls in 16 countries, Ms. Warner said. The materials are in eight languages and sign language, including Bulgarian, and additional ones are being added, she said.

MasterCard worked with top engineers and technologists to develop the program, and it is based on global science and math standards. Girls4Tech is developing a curriculum for girls older than sixth grade.