The world runs on engineering—bridges, buildings, roads, and even the phones we use every day all exist because of brilliant minds in STEM.
But for many young girls, the idea of becoming an engineer might feel like a distant dream.
That’s why the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) is stepping up to change that with Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, a hands-on event designed to spark interest in engineering and STEM careers.
A Day of Exploration at the Exploreum
On Monday, Feb. 17, the Exploreum Science Center in downtown Mobile will transform into a hub of inspiration, welcoming 75-100 high school girls from Mobile and Baldwin counties.
Throughout the day, these students will meet successful female engineers, hear their stories, and dive into interactive activities that bring engineering concepts to life.
Events like this aren’t just about lectures and brochures—they’re about showing young women what’s possible.
When students get to see real engineers at work, designing the world around them, suddenly the path feels a little more tangible.
Role Models Who Have Been There
One of the biggest highlights? Hearing directly from female engineers who have built their careers in the field.
ALDOT’s Jenifer Eubanks, a professional engineer and Mobile’s assistant construction engineer, is passionate about helping young girls picture themselves in these roles.
“As female leaders in engineering, we want young girls to see themselves with futures in engineering, even as engineers, and to one day be sharing their journey at events like these,” Eubanks said.
Representation matters. Seeing women who have navigated the challenges of the industry—and thrived—can be the spark that encourages a student to pursue the same path.
More Than Just a Classroom Lesson
This event isn’t happening in a vacuum.
It’s backed by some of the biggest players in the industry, including the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) – Mobile Branch, ALDOT, Associated General Contractors – Alabama Chapter, and the Society of Military Engineers – Mobile Post.
These organizations know that the future of engineering depends on a diverse, talented workforce.
Engineering offers careers that are creative, high-paying, and full of opportunities to solve real-world problems.
Cities grow, technology evolves, and new challenges emerge, which means the industry is always looking for fresh minds ready to tackle the future.
A Future Built on Innovation
For high school students, career decisions might seem far off, but moments like these can shape the road ahead.
Events like Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day offer an early glimpse into what’s possible, and for some students, that spark of curiosity could turn into a lifelong passion.
The world of engineering is constantly evolving, and the next generation will play a huge role in shaping it.
Some of the young women who walk through the Exploreum’s doors might one day design safer bridges, develop smarter cities, or revolutionize sustainable energy.
It all starts with an introduction.
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