Girls in STEM event at MCAST to promote gender equality in technical careers

More than 350 students from State, Church and independent schools took part in a Girls in STEM event at the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) on 9 March, aimed at encouraging young people to explore careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The event, organised by the Institute of Engineering and Transport (IET), formed part of the College’s activities marking International Women’s Day and sought to raise awareness that careers in technical and scientific fields are open to everyone, regardless of gender.

Throughout the morning, participants took part in a series of interactive workshops and demonstrations led by MCAST female lecturers and students. Industry leaders were also invited to the sessions designed to give schoolchildren practical insight into the different fields of engineering and technology.

Activities included metal workshop practice, where participants observed sheet-metal techniques such as marking out, cutting, and bending, as well as aerodynamics demonstrations using a wind tunnel to visualise how airflow affects aircraft and other structures.

Students also explored robotics, electronics and drone technology, learning how modern systems are designed, programmed and tested. Other sessions focused on green energy and sustainable engineering, where participants built small wind turbines and participated in experiments demonstrating hydrogen fuel cells powered by water electrolysis.

Additional demonstrations introduced participants to physics principles, highlighting concepts such as surface tension and material properties, while the Marine Engineering bridge simulator allowed visitors to experience how ships are navigated using advanced training technology.

In the aviation workshops, participants were introduced to aircraft safety procedures and basic first aid, while Virtual Reality simulations demonstrated how immersive technologies are increasingly used in aviation training.

The event aimed to inspire young people to consider future careers in engineering and technology by providing hands-on exposure to these subjects and showcasing the opportunities available in the sector.

Speaking about this initiative, Deputy Director Inġ. Carolina Sofia said, “The College hopes to inspire the next generation of engineers, scientists and innovators, while reinforcing the message that all careers are open to everyone. At MCAST, outreach activities play an important role in encouraging greater participation in STEM-related fields and in challenging traditional perceptions about gender roles within technical professions.”