E-Mail Mentoring Program Overview
Increase the pool of qualified technical applicants
The problem:
Industry continues to be challenged by the shortage of engineers and technical
workers. The demand simply outweighs the supply. Universities are
seeing a decline in enrollment in the colleges of engineering, and
females still make up roughly only 10% of the total U.S. engineering
student population.
Middle school and high school teachers consistently voice concern
over the low enrollment of females in technical programs and their
low attendance at technical career awareness opportunities. Part
of the problem is perception. Many young women see technical careers
as “geek” rather than “chic.” To change that image and attract them
to the world of technology, they need positive experiences and role
models.
The solution:
For nearly a decade, Micron’s K-12 Program has been involving young women
in an e-mail mentoring experience that provides role models who offer insight
into the exciting world of technology. Girls learn about technology's creativity,
teamwork, innovation, and how it improves the human condition. Eighth graders
were selected as the target age since research shows that this is the pivotal
year when young women begin taking fewer math and science courses.
Micron’s K-12 Program is providing information on our e-mail mentoring
program as a template for schools and interested companies outside
southern Idaho. If you are interested in starting a program, we
hope that the following information is helpful. Questions can be
sent to k-12programs@micron.com.