We were excited to kick off our first iNSPiRE event in Rapid City this March after successfully hosting the same event in Sioux Falls for the past five years (before iNSPiRE, the event was known as DigiGirlz). Omnitech’s iNSPiRE event aims to introduce STEM opportunities to 8th – 12th-grade girls. We also launched a new iNSPiRE website, iNSPiREbyOmnitech.com, which offers a fresh look, an enhanced registration process, and future resources for girls to reference.
Partnering with South Dakota Mines, who agreed to host the event at the Surbeck Center, gave us the perfect venue to welcome girls and volunteers from the community. Over a hundred girls registered for the event, with an additional 120 on the waitlist. The day was filled with activities to inspire young girls to explore their interests in technology and engineering while providing valuable insights into potential career paths.
In addition to the exciting expansion of iNSPiRE to Rapid City and the launch of the new iNSPiRE website, the event featured inspiring speakers who shared their experiences and insights with those in attendance.
Dr. Scyller Borglum, a South Dakota Mines alum and leader in the United States energy industry, offered opening remarks and inspiration for the young girls in attendance. Dr. Borglum's success and leadership in her field serve as an excellent example of the possibilities available to those interested in STEM.
The keynote speaker at iNSPiRE was Amie Konwinski, Smart Gen Society’s founder, and CEO. As a media use expert, national educator, and frequent keynote speaker, Amie shared valuable insights into digital safety and awareness and how to be an educated user in the digital age. Her work with Smart Gen Society, a non-profit focused on empowering students, parents, and educators with knowledge and resources, highlights the importance of safe and private digital use.
Overall, iNSPiRE by Omnitech was an incredible event that provided valuable opportunities for young girls interested in STEM. We are so grateful for each speaker and the wealth of knowledge and experience they could share with the attendees. Thank you to the South Dakota Mines for letting us host our event on their campus. We look forward to future events and opportunities where we can empower and inspire the next generation of leaders in STEM!