Tech Trek is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) camp designed by American Association of University Women to develop interest, excitement and self-confidence in eighth grade girls. It features hands-on activities in STEM-related fields. All sleeping, eating, instructional and recreational facilities are located on a university campus.

Linda Flores is Tech Trek coordinator for Tehachapi. This last year she worked with middle school science and math teachers who recommended camper candidates. The nominated students submitted applications and essays which were reviewed by a branch committee. Adi Welker and Quin Scott were chosen to attend the summer camp at University of California Santa Barbara.

Recently the girls met with AAUW members to thank them for the opportunity to attend Tech Trek. Adi Welker and Quin Scott each spoke of their experiences and thanked Tehachapi Mountain Branch for sponsoring them. It was their first time to live away from their home and family for a week. At first, they were quite nervous, but very soon they made friends and enjoyed living in a dorm.

They repeatedly mentioned the word fun as they described working with robots, a boat trip, talking to an astronaut, exploring the beach and learning many new things. Because of their experience, both girls said they have become more interested in their classes at Jacobsen Middle School. They expressed a desire to learn more about the sciences and nature.

AAUW studies show that the program exposes the students to other girls and women interested in STEM subjects. It makes them comfortable on a college campus so they are more likely to attend college and to later work in STEM fields.

Phyllis Belcher is a member of AAUW Tehachapi Mountain Branch.