PEMBROKE — Sixth graders from Prospect Elementary, Deep Branch Elementary and Pembroke Middle schools attended the Girls in STEAM Women’s Empowerment Conference on Tuesday at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
During the conference, 55 students in attendance heard empowering messages from female leaders in various careers related to STEAM (an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics).
Dr. Windy Dorsey-Carr, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Accountability at PSRC, shared encouraging words for students at the event.
“STEAM is not just for boys, STEAM is for everyone. Right now, as middle schoolers, you have all the talent and curiosity needed to change the world,” Dr. Dorsey-Carr said.
“The future is being built right now—and it needs you. It needs your ideas, your creativity, and your passion. Whether it’s designing the next big app, curing diseases, or building robots that can save lives—you have the power to make it happen. So, dream big, stay curious, and don’t let anyone tell you that STEAM isn’t for you—because it absolutely is,” Dr. Dorsey-Carr added.
The event, held in the Thomas College of Business and Economics building at UNC-Pembroke, was hosted by Schneider Electric in partnership with the Public Schools of Robeson County. Representatives from High Tide Aviation, Corning Inc., MarineQuest, and Duke Energy, all provided inspiring stories through rotating information stations, encouraging students to dream big and to picture themselves in successful STEAM careers.
“We are grateful for Schneider Electric’s vision for this amazing event, allowing our students the opportunity to envision themselves in STEAM careers,” said PSRC Science Supervisor Susan Miller-Hendrix.
Students enjoyed breakfast, lunch, and engaging hands-on activities, including the exciting challenge of designing and constructing an energy-efficient house.
“We’re proud to host Girls in STEAM in partnership with the Public Schools of Robeson County,” said Ken Broach, Regional Vice President at Schneider Electric.
“Some of the young women here today may go on to pursue careers in engineering or related fields, solving the challenges of tomorrow,” he said.