On September 9th, IGNITE Worldwide presented an engaging Panel for 32 kindergarten to 2nd-grade students at Paschal Sherman Indian School. The panel featured Cayden Diefenbach, an Electrical Estimator at Don Kruse Electric, who introduced students to the electrical trade. Cayden’s hands-on approach and relatable stories helped students connect to careers in technical fields like plumbing and outdoor work.
The students were enthusiastic, intrigued by the connection between practical skills and technology in careers like Cayden’s. Educators expressed appreciation for the panel’s impact and shared plans to continue these discussions with another event in November. Panelists also noted how rewarding the experience was, reflecting on the value of introducing young learners to career exploration early on.
“Today showed me that girls rule and they can be whatever they choose.”
Kindergarten IGNITE Student
“I can be whatever I want to be when I grow up. Girl power!”
Kindergarten IGNITE Student
“STEM leaders can be girls, and girls can be whatever they want to be.”
1st Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
89%
INTERESTED IN STEM
61%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
67%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
79%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“Women and girls can be anything they want to be. Girl power!” – Kindergarten IGNITE Student
“I can be whatever I choose when I grow up.” – 2nd Grade IGNITE Student
“There’s no such thing as only boy jobs and girls can be in STEM too.” – Kindergarten IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Cayden Diefenbach
- Waylon Michel
- Kori Jackson
- Liz Bremner
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.