AAUW Washington hosted its 10th Tech Trek camp in July 2024 on the campus of Pacific Lutheran University with just over one hundred campers sponsored by Washington’s local AAUW  branches. Tech Trek is an immersive program designed around STEM activities to increase interest, excitement, and self confidence in middle school girls. AAUW created the program to encourage girls in future STEM careers, where women are often significantly underrepresented.

Seventh grade girls are nominated by their STEM teachers to apply for a sponsorship. They are residents on a college campus for a week, living in a dorm, eating in the cafeteria, and attending classes.  During their week at Tech Trek the girls attend one core class of their choice and additional labs and workshops each day to provide them with exposure to various aspects of STEM.  In the evenings, the girls participate in activities that develop team building and collaboration.

On Thursday night, women working as professionals in STEM fields from throughout the Seattle/Tacoma area talk about their careers, what kind of education they have, and the diverse opportunities open to women with STEM degrees.  The girls also select two destinations from a number of field trip options, including places like the Museum of Flight, Harbor Wildwatch, Northwest Trek, Mt. Rainier, and stream study by the US Geological Survey.  They also experience a half day consumer education simulation called Bite of Reality.

The Puyallup Valley Branch has made Tech Trek possible for over 90 middle school girls to date. Funds from the Puyallup AAUW Garden Tour provide full sponsorships for the selected campers.