Girl Scouts had the chance to train an Artificial Intelligence model, take vital signs, learn about on-air broadcasting, identify bugs, build bridges, and launch rockets during STEM Fest.

HONOLULU — Over 400 Girl Scouts across the state participated in this year’s STEM Fest events held on Oʻahu, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi Island and Maui. During STEM Fest, Girl Scouts from kindergarten through 12th grade had the opportunity to learn about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers and participated in exciting STEM-focused activities.

“STEM Fest is one of our largest programs of the year, providing Girl Scouts with wonderful opportunities to learn from and network with some of the most successful STEM leaders and companies both locally and nationally,” said Girl Scouts of Hawaiʻi Interim CEO Michele Saito.

Exhibitors included Hawaiian Telcom, Kauaʻi Community Science Center and Wilcox Medical Center on Kauaʻi; Gemini International Observatory, Hilo Aviation and Hawaiian Volcano Observatory on Hawaiʻi Island; Air Force Research Laboratory, Shadow the Scientists and Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary on Maui; and Honolulu Zoo Society, Blue Planet Foundation and Hawaii Space Grant Consortium on Oʻahu.

STEM Fest is just one of many Girl Scouts of Hawai’i (GSH) initiatives that seek to fulfill Hawaii’s current and future need for STEM professionals. It is estimated that 80 percent of jobs that will exist in five years do not exist today.

With women holding just 25 percent of STEM jobs in the U.S., GSH has expanded its programming to encourage girls to pursue careers in this rapidly growing industry.

To learn more about the Girl Scouts’ STEM programs, visit www.gshawaii.org/en/stem-center.html.