In an initiative aimed at inspiring the next generation of female engineers, thirty-five young women from the Stockton Unified School District (SUSD) embarked on an educational journey to Tesla's facilities in Lathrop, California as it is part of an event that has been hosted for the past seven years, with the last two years taking place in Lathrop.The event, held on February 22, 2024, was part of the "Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day," a collaborative effort among SUSD, non-profit San Joaquin A+, and Tesla, designed to expose students to the possibilities within STEM fields.
Students from Henry, Peyton, and Huerta K-8 schools were given a unique opportunity to explore one of the leading technology companies in the region. Their visit was not limited to a single location; they explored multiple sites, including one of our Service-supporting locations, which provided them with a broader understanding of the company's operations and contributions to technology and service. The experience included interactive sessions, a comprehensive tour of the facilities, and invaluable interactions with engineering professionals, offering the students a holistic view of the technological landscape and potential career paths in engineering.
Shayla Walker, from SJA+, encapsulated the essence of the day with her words:
"We are at the Tesla Megafactory and we are having 30 to 40 young girls, from middle schools and SUSD school district come to see the factory, to learn about electric energy and to expose them to careers within this field. It's really inspiring because I think a lot of the young girls who are here maybe never thought they could work in this type of field."
The initiative sought not only to introduce these young minds to the field of engineering but also to inspire them by demonstrating the successes of women in the industry. Walker added:
"Getting them exposed to learn about the industry, manufacturing, engineering, all the different opportunities in STEM that will lead to these opportunities, I think is really inspiring."
The visit to Tesla's Megafactory was more than just an educational excursion; it was a beacon of hope and inspiration, highlighting the potential for more young women to venture into careers in STEM. This event stands as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration between educational institutions, non-profits, and industry giants. By offering these students a glimpse into the world of engineering and technology, the partners involved hope to empower a new generation of women to break traditional barriers and pave the way for innovation and diversity in these fields.
