On March 28, 2026, the Los Angeles County Office of Education's (LACOE) STEM Science Unit hosted its 10th annual Engaging Girls in STEM event at the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanic Garden. Two hundred middle and high school girls from across Los Angeles County attended, connecting with 25 professional women working in STEM fields. Participants explored hands-on activities and interactive exhibits hosted by more than 20 STEM industries and organizations.

The event, inaugurated in 2017, aims to support and encourage more girls to pursue future careers in science, technology, engineering and math. The event connects young students to STEM Ambassadors, women working in STEM, and provides time for networking and asking questions about their educational journeys and current career paths. Some of this year's ambassadors have participated in the event for 10 years. Their passion and dedication to Engaging Girls in STEM goes beyond the event's name, and we are truly grateful. Many of this year's first-time Ambassadors brought valuable insight as recent graduates specializing in fields such as aerospace, evolutionary biology, computer science and entrepreneurship.

Collaborators for this year's event included the Los Angeles Zoo, California Science Center, Columbia Memorial Space Center and the National Society of Black Engineers.

“Ten years marks a major milestone for Engaging Girls in STEM. Our work matters because it prepares students for the future. Together with our partners and collaborators, we remain committed to delivering high-quality programming that inspires the next generation of women leaders,” said Anthony Quan, STEM Science Coordinator III at LACOE.

Students attended a panel discussion titled "Unplanned and Unstoppable," where three program ambassadors shared their personal career journeys. During the panel's Q&A session, participants engaged in discussions on topics such as preparation for STEM careers, strategies for maintaining work-life balance, and the social and emotional aspects of working in STEM fields, all guided by insights from ambassadors and exhibitors.

At the conclusion of the event, participants received complimentary access to explore the Los Angeles Zoo until closing time.

For those interested in more details, please visit LACOE's official Engaging Girls in STEM webpage.