On October 17, 2024, IGNITE Worldwide hosted a Panel Event at the NCESD CS Fair Expo, providing high school students in grades 9-12 a chance to learn about STEM careers directly from industry professionals. This IGNITE Panel, part of the larger conference event, featured Anna Rogers, a Chemical Engineer at REC Silicon; Kun Zhao, a Scientist at REC Silicon; and Joshika Suresh, a Software Test Engineer at Grant PUD. 48 students participated in this breakout session, where they had the chance to hear personal career stories, ask questions, and get inspired.
The Panelists were engaging and made students feel comfortable as they shared their unique career journeys and perspectives. Students were curious and asked questions about topics like college life, salaries, and memorable advice. Panelists emphasized the importance of exploring new areas and keeping a mindset of continual learning. They also encouraged students to pursue their interests boldly and consider STEM careers, even in fields with fewer women. This IGNITE panel presented a standout opportunity for students to gain real-world insights into STEM professions.
“I didn’t know much about STEM when I first came here. This event really taught me what it means, and now I’m interested in learning more about it. There were a lot of people at this event, and I think it teaches you a lot about the different careers you can explore. My favorite part was learning about all the different careers.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event inspired me to want to do STEM and it was a cool experience.”
9th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today inspired me to look into STEM careers and made me admire the people who work in these fields.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
71%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS &
THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
71%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE
HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“This event helped me learn new things and made me more interested in STEM.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to like STEM more and made it feel more fun to study.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me a lot just by hearing everything they were saying.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Anna Rogers, Chemical Engineer at REC Silicon
- Kun Zhao, Scientist at REC Silicon
- Joshika Suresh, Software Test Engineer at Grant PUD
- Holly Bringman, Educator
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.