The Lyles College of Engineering at California State University, Fresno is offering central San Joaquin Valley high school girls an opportunity to attend Girls Summer Engineering Experience (SEE), the university’s first girls engineering camp.

Girls See, which runs July 13-17, is available to girls entering grades 10-12. Applications are due by May 29.

Activities are designed to build upon leadership skills while promoting an all-female science- and math-based community.

“Women only make up 20% of engineering programs’ population. Other professions have been able to close gender gaps while we’re still working on it. This camp is one way we are approaching the issue and hoping to solve it,” said Nell Papavasiliou, a professor in the computer and electrical engineering department.

The week will start with a keynote address by DeLynn Bettencourt Hammell, a 2003 graduate and Distinguished Alumna of Fresno State. Bettencourt Hammell graduated as the Lyles College of Engineering’s Dean’s Medalist, with a BS in Electrical Engineering. She will share her experiences as a female engineering student and as a woman in a professional engineering environment.

During the week, students will work with Lyles College of Engineering faculty in geomatics, civil, electrical and mechanical engineering and construction management.

They will gain experience with GPS, build robots, construct bridges and create a solar-powered cooker and will go on field trips to see how engineering education at Fresno state is applied in careers.

Students interested in attending must write a one-page statement describing their passion for science and/or mathematics. A recommendation from an instructor also is required.

The cost is $150 and students who need financial assistance can apply for scholarships by including a description of their financial need within their personal statement.

Applications should be sent to the Lyles College of Engineering Pathways, Student Success Services (2220 E. San Ramon Ave. M/S EE-94 Fresno, Ca 93740).

For more information, contact Lisa Craig at lcraig@csufresno.edu or 559.278.1076.