Hutt Valley celebrates women in tech

Inspiring the next generation of women into tech careers is at the forefront of the upcoming Hutt STEMM Festival.

Breakfast talks focusing on the importance of women in tech leadership, and inspiring young women to get into the tech field, are just two highlights in the two-week programme of events focused on science, technology, engineering, mathematics and manufacturing.

The talks feature passionate speakers, including a CEO, Managing Director, recruitment and education experts and a special guest from NASA.

Up to 40 young women from the region will also have the opportunity to participate in the Innovative Young Minds programme, a hands-on introduction to a wide range of technology which has been designed to attract and engage girls to the tech and innovation fields.

The Hutt STEMM Festival has grown each year from its first iteration in 2015 and will deliver a diverse range of activities. Some will appeal to and inspire kids and their families, while others will strengthen connections between businesses and industry.

Ray Wallace, Lower Hutt Mayor, believes celebrating STEMM is integral to the economic future of the city.

"The future is being built here in Lower Hutt. We have businesses and educators leading the nation in key fields and inspiring our young people. There are plenty of free events for students and kids, showing them how exciting the STEMM industries can be.

"I'm also happy to see a focus on the essential part women are playing in these growing industries. Between the breakfast talks and the new Innovative Young Minds programme Council is working on with Rotary Hutt City and Hutt Valley High School, I expect there will be plenty of bright young women considering further study and careers in STEMM.

This year's festival coincides with the nationwide initiative: Techweek'17.