Earlier this month, Edmonds College hosted 220 middle and high school students from across the Edmonds School District for the annual Expanding Your Horizons conference. The event focused on inspiring young women to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
Supported by partners including American Association of University Women, Washington State University Everett, and Snohomish STEM Network, the event featured 22 hands-on workshops led by professionals across industries such as engineering, healthcare, technology, and environmental science.
Students also heard from keynote speaker Randi Levin of Sound Transit, who encouraged them to lead with courage and creativity.
Through interactive sessions and career networking opportunities, students gained real-world insights and confidence in their abilities. As one participant shared, the experience was “empowering” and helped show that there is a place for women in STEM.
The Impact: Voices of the Future
The feedback from participants underscored the transformative power of representation. For many, the day was a turning point from “I don’t know” to “I can.”
“I personally think that the event was very interactive which gave students a first-hand experience about various STEM fields while being able to network with those who are in the field, and the impact they create. Especially since STEM is considered to be very ‘male’, it felt empowering to know that there are women in STEM and hear the stories and experiences they had to share” said Shivali S.
By the end of the day, 220 young women left the Edmonds College campus not just with souvenir kits, but with a clear vision of their own potential. Through the partnership of local educators and global industry leaders, the horizon for girls in Snohomish County has never looked wider.
