On September 9th, IGNITE Worldwide held an In-Person IGNITE Panel for 31 students in grades 6-9 at Paschal Sherman Indian School. The panel featured Rayan Russell, Program Manager at PacAero; Kelly Tueffers, Program Manager at Emerson; and Cal Goolsby, Dean at Wenatchee Valley College. Panelists shared personal stories and advice, encouraging students to embrace new opportunities, learn from failures, and use resources like local colleges and libraries to explore their interests.
The students were captivated by a product sample brought in by one of the Panelists and appreciated insights into careers in aerospace, engineering, and higher education. Although questions from students were limited, educators reported high engagement and excitement, with plans for a follow-up panel in November. Panelists reflected on how meaningful it was to participate and how impactful IGNITE would have been during their own youth.
“This event showed me that the possibilities in STEM are endless.”
9th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today showed me that girls can be the boss too.”
8th Grade IGNITE Student
“I’m more confident about my future.”
6th Grade IGNITE Student
“Girls can be whatever they want to be.”
6th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
82%
INTERESTED IN STEM
75%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
66%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
80%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“I don’t know what I want to be yet, but this helped. Listening to the volunteers and learning about the many options out there was really helpful.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“The future possibilities are inspiring.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Rayan Russell
- Kelly Tueffers
- Cal Goolsby
- Waylon Michel
- Kori Jackson
- Liz Bremner
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.