When I was a kid I had almost NO interest in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) fields. I took the minimum amount of science and math classes required in high school. The only thing I enjoyed was computer programming. But, as you can see by the date on my commendation below, that was in the olden days.
We only had TWO computer classes available in our school and once I finished those I was out of luck and basically forgot about computers. Once I got to college I think I squeaked by with taking only one short winter semester science course and that was it.
It wasn’t until I was an adult and in the working world that I realized how helpful furthering my knowledge could be and what I was missing.
In a management role in the Consumer Affairs division for an electronics company, I had to deal with the programming guys in IT (yes they were ALL guys) who were developing a new software program for our department.
I told them what our needs were and gave feedback on the design as it progressed. Since I was clueless about the coding aspect I was often confused and the dismissive attitude of the guys was beyond frustrating.
I got so fed up with the situation that I went back to school and got a Masters of Science degree in Management Information Systems. I vowed to never be the clueless one again!!
I love that "Miles from Tomorrowland" on DISNEY CHANNEL encourages an interest in science and technology for all kids.
What is extra special is that they are making an effort to encourage girls to get interested and involved. Giving an extra push to that effort is this Friday’s episode featuring Miles’ sister Loretta as an expert coder.
While we still have a long way to go, I find it inspiring to see more and more young girls becoming interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) fields. This is an important theme woven throughout the Miles from Tomorrowland series.
This fall, when visiting Google Headquarters in California, I had a chance to take part in a Q&A with some pretty awesome women in science including Isis Anchalee (#ILookLikeAnEngineer), Dr. Cagle (NASA Astronaut), Angela Navarro (Google Engineer), Di Ikemiyashiro (Disney Junior Director of Original Programming) and Sascha Paladino (Miles from Tomorrowland's creator and executive producer).
These impressive women shared how they themselves became involved in STEM fields. While some loved science from the get-go, others, like Isis Anchalee, creator of the #ILookLikeAnEngineer movement, came to it a bit later in their education.
What these women all have in common is that they are smart, successful and believe that it is important to encourage young girls to get interested and involved in STEM fields.
Be sure to catch (and especially have your daughters watch) this Friday’s Miles from Tomorrowland episode “The Discovery Expedition at 10:30 AM ET/PT on DISNEY CHANNEL. In this episode Loretta uses her coding skills to discover a hidden planet.
Amber C. says
Miles from tomorrow land is a great cartoon! WE love to watch it at home!
Shell says
This is such a great show! My kids love all things stem related.
Rachelle J says
I love that STEM is something that is encouraged for girls nowadays. My daughter loves all things science!
Rosey says
I agree that it is nice to see girls interested in STEM. It wasn’t that long ago when that was the farthest thing from encouraging. Hurrah for progress.
Jeanine says
All my kids actually seem to enjoy STEM learning! I think it’s great and super important, especially with my girls!
Erica says
As a parent and a college educator Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) is such an important topic for me. My daughter was not a big fan of her STEM courses in Middle School but I was grateful that they offered them!
Theresa says
My oldest daughter is way into STEM. My younger one, not so much. I do love seeing more women enter into these fields!
Ann Bacciaglia says
This looks like a great show for kids to watch. I will have to share this with my friends with kids this age.
Marcie W. says
I was also dominant in english and reading growing up but have since developed a huge love for all things science over the last few years. I think television shows that promote STEM are wonderful! We need more women in these fields.
Liz Mays says
This show sounds great! I love that they’re making science and tech fun for the kids!
Melinda@LookWhatMomFound...andDadtoo says
We try to encourage STEM learning each day. the kids are always involved in something either at school or at home
Nicole Escat says
Great to hear this. STEM is so important to our children. Thanks for sharing this awesome post.
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
STEM is so important to our children’s futures. I’m glad Miles from Tomorrowland is encouraging that in our kids.
Travel Blogger says
It is so crucial to get girls involved in STEM, and seeing other strong women in those roles is a great start!
Robin Rue (@massholemommy) says
I have boys are they are so into STEM learning. They love all things science and math!