Goodyear Takes the Mystery Out of Engineering For Women

AKRON, Ohio, April 29 -- Almost 200 students and parents attended Goodyear's 3rd annual Engineering Career Day for Young Women held this past weekend at the company's Goodyear Hall location.

Teresa Kline, aerospace engineer for the U.S. Army Research Laboratory, working as a civilian through NASA, was the keynote speaker. This year's theme was "Launching Your Future with Engineering."

Sponsored by Goodyear's Global Engineering and Manufacturing Technology, Chemical Division and Human Resources Planning and Development groups, the focus is to introduce young women (grades 6 through 12) to engineering careers earlier in their education process.

"In many cases, young women are unaware of the various career opportunities available in these fields and as a result they finish high school unprepared to pursue studies in technical fields," said Ernie Rodia, vice president of global engineering and manufacturing technology. "By introducing the possibilities earlier, students will have a better understanding of the courses required, tailor their school course selection and are better prepared to continue in the technical fields after high school.

"Each year we average about 200 participants. This event has been well supported by the schools and parents. It's apparent that this is helpful as these young women consider future careers and opportunities," said Rodia.

According to Brandy Kohut, mechanical engineer in Goodyear's Global Engineering and Manufacturing Technology organization and chairperson for this year's event, feedback from previous participants was used to design this year's program.

"Last year's feedback was very encouraging. The students said they learned a lot about engineering disciplines and also had fun," she said. "Some of our interns also participate in the event so the students learn about day-to-day activities from young engineers. The information provided on college courses and campus life is particularly important for students and parents!"

As one participant said, "This day was a great influence on what I want to be when I grow up!"

The program included workshops and hands-on activity to reinforce engineering principles discussed during the day.

Employees from Case Western Reserve University; Delphi Automotive Systems; DLZ Ohio, Inc.; Finkbeiner, Pettis & Strout, Inc.; First Energy; Jones-Stuckey Ltd.; Kent Roosevelt High School; Lockheed Martin Corporation; National Aeronautics and Space Administration; Rockwell Automation; The Cleveland Clinic; The Ohio State University; and The University of Akron provided information on engineering opportunities.

In addition, representatives from Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland State University, The Ohio State University, The University of Akron, University of Pittsburgh, Stark State College of Technology and Wright State University provided application packages and enrollment and campus information.

Assisting Brandy Kohut in coordinating the program were co-chairpersons, Crystal Williams, electrical engineer, Global Engineering and Manufacturing Technology, and Kaylynn Johnston, chemical engineer, Chemical Division.