Exciting STEM Opportunities for Students at the CHOICES Conference

The wonders of science, engineering, and technology were on full display at the recent CHOICES Conference, an event designed to inspire young minds and encourage exploration in these vital fields. Yesterday, Black Gold School Division students from Grade 6 accompanied by Mrs. Reich had the opportunity to participate in this engaging experience.

Every year, the CHOICES Conference welcomes around 600 Grade 6 girls and gender-diverse students along with their teachers, fostering an environment of learning and collaboration. 

The one-day event featured a variety of hands-on lab activities, allowing students to delve into coding, DNA extraction, robotics, environmental sciences, and engineering. A highlight of the day was the traditional team engineering challenge, where students were tasked with designing the fastest bobsled using only the provided materials. Teams eagerly competed against each other, showcasing their creativity and engineering skills.

The CHOICES Conference is made possible thanks to the Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science, and Technology (WISEST) initiative at the University of Alberta. Since its inception in 1991, WISEST has positively impacted over 19,304 students and 4,525 teachers, making significant strides in promoting STEM education.

The CHOICES Conference not only opens doors to new possibilities but also lays the foundation for the next generation of innovators and leaders in STEM fields.

Looking ahead, WISEST is also one of the sponsors for the Girls in STEM event at Ohpaho Secondary School on March 10, 2025, which will welcome 150 Grade 8–12 girls and gender-diverse students from across the Division. WISEST will host the second of the event’s three sessions. This initiative continues to empower young women and other underrepresented groups, encouraging them to pursue and succeed in science, engineering, and technology.