ComEd has selected 30 young women ages 13 to 18 to participate in the sixth-annual ComEd Icebox Derby,a program the energy company developed to encourage women to pursue science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and careers. Each participant will receive a $1,500 scholarship.
Icebox Derby participants transform old refrigerators from ComEd’s Fridge and Freezer Recycling program into solar-enhanced racecars. Six teams of girls will work with ComEd mentors to assemble and race the cars.
This year, the ComEd Icebox Derbyis not only for the participants: Everyone can join in on the fun and have a chance to win big by becoming a Derby Diehard. The public can take up to 12 social media challenges for a chance to win one of several energy-efficient prizes, including a smart refrigerator, smart thermostats, and solar-powered phone chargers. Fans can learn more about Derby Diehards and take a quiz to find out which team matches their personality at IceboxDerby.com.
Women make up 49 percent of the workforce, yet only 26 percent of jobs in STEM-related fields in Illinois, according to a studyby the Illinois Science & Technology Coalition. This summer, more than 10 percent of past Icebox Derby participants are working at ComEd as interns.
“The lack of women in STEM careers continues to be a problem, and we need to do more than talk about it,” said Joe Dominguez,CEO of ComEd. “That’s why we created this program to encourage young women to step into their power and take ownership of the opportunities that exist in the STEM field. The world’s biggest challenges involve science, technology, engineering, and math, and we will need women scientists and innovators to help solve them. The Icebox Derby is just one way we are creating positive change and exposing youth from our communities to STEM career possibilities.”
The program will culminate with the race on Saturday, Aug. 3, at Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. The festivities will begin at noon, and admission is free for all. In addition to the race, families and kids can enjoy various STEM activities in the plaza. The winning team will earn bragging rights and the ComEd Icebox Derby STEM Cup. The race will test not only the girls’ speed and craftsmanship but also their analytical skills and ability to work together to achieve a common goal.
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