By: Ashmar Mandou

The return of ComEd’s highly anticipated STEM-related program is here, ComEd EV Rally and they are encouraging young girls across Chicago to apply. The summer long program pairs young girls with ComEd mentors to help build and race high-tech, electric-powered go-carts. ComEd believes the next generation of the STEM workforce must be a more diverse one, and has expanded this year’s pool of program participants by 50 percent, giving 45 students the chance to work with female mentors from ComEd to explore career pathways in STEM.  The program will end with memorable experience as participants race their vehicles at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago on Saturday, July 29. Every participant will also receive a $2,000 scholarship upon completion of the program. Senior Manager Transmission Control at ComEd Yasmin El-Tigani spoke with Lawndale Bilingual News about the importance of encouraging young girls to enter the STEM field and what to expect during the ComEd EV Rally program.  

Lawndale Bilingual News: From your standpoint as a mentor, what would you say is the most significant aspect of the ComEd EV Rally program?

Yasmin El-Tigani: The most significant aspect of the program is its ability to attract young women who may be considering a path in STEM, however don’t know where to start or what avenues a career in STEM can create for them.

What should students expect from the summer program? How should they prepare?

The students should expect to be paired up in groups made up of 5 girls, and to be guided by 2-3 female mentors who will walk them through the build curriculum of the car while also challenging them with fun STEM related hands-on activities. There will be 4 build nights followed by race day, so you only need to be ready to have fun!

Several reports from the Pew Research Center and Census Bureau show that there is an increase of women in high profile STEM-related occupations.  Can you tell me why you feel it’s important to have female representation in STEM fields?

It is very important to have female representation in STEM fields in order to break down the barriers, biases, and create more diversity in thought and leadership in general. Females in STEM fields are very inclusive, creative, and are always willing to pass the torch to incoming generations.

What message would you like to share with these young students interested in applying for the ComEd EV Rally summer program?

You will not regret being a part of the ComEd EV Rally! I guarantee you will create new friendships and find a lot in common with other girls who are currently in your shoes. Come ready to have a blast and complete an inspiring challenge that you will always remember and be proud of!

Applications are open until Thursday, June 1, to any female Illinois resident between the ages of 13 and 18. Applications and more information are available at ComEdEVRally.com.