On Saturday, April 9th, 112 high school girls interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) careers from 16 Milwaukee area schools will have the opportunity to engage with and learn from successful women in a variety of STEM professions. This Prep-Pro Workshop (Preparing to be a Professional) was designed by the Engaging Girls in Science Initiative (EgGS), a self-funded, non-profit program offering networking and programming opportunities for Milwaukee area high school students.

This unique program brings girls and professional women together to discuss what it takes to succeed in fields traditionally dominated by men. It includes round-table discussions and a breakout session on networking skills. Overall the focus is on non-technical skills essential to a student’s long-term success. It is the belief of the EgGS Initiative that giving high school girls a chance to learn from women in STEM professions will help them forge their own path for success.

Waukesha Metal Products is proud to sponsor this event as well as many other programs and organizations that educate and support women in manufacturing and youth exploring STEM career fields. Waukesha Metal Products hosts several school tours throughout the year for students of all ages, including through the Council of Small Business Executive’s Be the Spark Campaign. They sponsor local robotics teams and participate in high school manufacturing advisory boards, providing support to STEM students and teachers in the greater Milwaukee area.

They have also championed the Women in Manufacturing Wisconsin Chapter since its inception. This group is dedicated to the attraction, retention and advancement of women who are pursuing or have chosen a career in the manufacturing industry by encouraging the engagement of women who want to share perspectives, gain cutting-edge manufacturing information, and improve leadership and communication skills while networking with industry peers.

It is the belief of Waukesha Metal Products that career exploration opportunities that help establish a link between students and businesses are key to filling the talent pipeline critical to the region’s economic vitality.