IEEE Ecuador STEM Camps served as an alternative to increase the interest in engineering and technology of girls and boys from communities in Ecuador. The resources used to meet the objectives of this project were STEM workshops aimed at girls and boys between 10 and 15 years old. The goal of the program was to increase interest and knowledge in various areas of STEM among students in the areas.

The program launched in March 2021 and included 188 students, 12 teachers, and 11 volunteers from the region. Eight local Ecuadorian communities participated. The camps included several STEM activities that were available to all. Students participated in practical design challenges involving robotics, science, and energy workshops. They experienced and observed science and technology work through tours with local engineers. The program also included technical visits and STEM mentoring programs with qualified professionals. The camp included 20 hours of online content to each location. 

The program yielded several positive outcomes. Over 50% of the student participation was from female students. Upon completion of the program, 10 STEM camps had been created with participation from local Ecuadorian communities. Additionally, the IEEE program leaders were awarded with the best article of the tract in the ETCM 2021 (https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9590634)

IEEE Ecuador STEM Camps was funded by the IEEE Pre-University STEM Portal Grant Program in 2021 and 2023.

IEEE TryEngineering and the IEEE Foundation have partnered to raise donations in support of the IEEE STEM Grant Program. If you would like to contribute, please make a donation via our IEEE TryEngineering Fund donation Page.