In today’s dynamic and ever-changing environment, empowering young women to succeed in STEM is essential for addressing gender disparities in the technology industry and driving innovation. Girls Inc. of Metro Denver is meeting this need through its Eureka STEM program, which offers immersive, hands-on experiences designed to equip girls with the skills and confidence to excel in STEM fields while helping to close the digital divide for underrepresented communities.
Equinix employees, guided by the WeAreEquinix (WRE) Denver team, forged a partnership with Girls Inc. during the summer of 2024, to further their shared mission of addressing the systemic challenges of digital and gender inequality. After a series of meetings to align missions and values, Equinix formalized the partnership by awarding Girls Inc. an Equinix Foundation donation through the WeGive program. This funding supports the Eureka STEM program, enabling Girls Inc. to create a rigorous and supportive environment where girls are exposed to STEM education alongside personal development, leadership training, and college readiness.
“Girls Inc. takes girls from underrepresented populations right here in Denver and builds out a support system to take them successfully through their school years and continues to provide support into college and beyond,” said Jenna Ware, Content Marketing Senior Manager and member of the Denver WRE team. “They ensure these girls have the resources, encouragement and opportunities to pursue the career paths of their dreams.”
The partnership with Girls Inc. has already fostered meaningful collaboration through engaging, hands-on activities with Equinix employees. It began with a lunch-and-learn session where Equinix employees assembled STEM activity kits adding personalized, inspiring messages for the girls. The collaboration came to life in the classroom as Equinix employees then visited the Girls Inc. facility in Denver to deliver an adapted Pathways to Tech presentation, further equipping the girls to navigate a tech-driven world and overcome barriers to digital inclusion. This interactive session introduced the girls to the tech industry and the exciting possibilities in fields like data center operations. The day concluded with a hands-on circuit sheet activity, where the team guided the girls through building circuits, blending education with creativity and fun, and sparking curiosity about STEM careers.
The impact of these efforts extends far beyond the classroom.
“You can be what you can see,” said Haley Shilts, Vice President of Development & External Relations at Girls Inc. of Metro Denver. “Exposure to Equinix employees and the world of data centers gives girls a new perspective on their potential, helping them envision futures in industries they might never have imagined.”
Equinix and the Equinix Foundation’s support, through the WeGive program that includes both funding and employee engagement, is helping Girls Inc. continue its vital work of bridging the digital divide. Though it’s just getting started, the partnership between Equinix and Girls Inc. is already full of potential, with plans in the works for new initiatives such as arranging IBX tours for girls of all ages.
“This is just the beginning,” said Jenna. “We’re excited to nurture this relationship and continue working together to empower the next generation of leaders in STEM.”
As they move forward, their shared mission of inspiring young women to pursue their passions and achieve their full potential promises a bright future for girls in Denver and beyond.