Women in STEM Event

On December 6, GlenOak High School hosted its most dynamic Women in STEM event yet, bringing students and professionals together to explore opportunities in science, technology, engineering, math, and, for the first time, law. Organized by teacher Angela Beshore, the event featured accomplished professionals who engaged students in conversations about career paths and inspired them to envision their futures.

“This event aims to empower our students, fostering their passion for STEM and encouraging them to pursue their dreams despite any obstacles,” said Beshore.

Students rotated through nine interactive stations, meeting professionals from fields like veterinary science, environmental sustainability, aerospace engineering, and accounting. Highlights included two aerospace engineers from NASA Glenn Research Center, a hospital attorney, and a general curator from Raptor Hallow Sanctuary who brought along a falcon, a bunny, and a snake.

Representation was a key focus. “I truly believe that seeing women in leadership roles makes a difference in shaping students’ academic and career plans,” Beshore explained.

The event sparked excitement among students. “You could tell the people speaking to us love what they do,” shared 9th grader Mari Abou-Zakhim. “Their passion made me want to do that profession, too.”

Students valued the opportunity to learn directly from professionals. “It was inspiring. I found out a lot about the process of schooling,” said 9th grader Arrianah Yoho. Others appreciated the variety of speakers. “I thought it was really cool that they had a wide range of options and speakers from STEM fields,” added 9th grader Jameela Jackson.

For those still exploring their futures, the event offered clarity. “The speakers opened up new opportunities to consider,” shared 9th grader Taylor France.

The speakers included:

• Cindy Tropf and Lesia Eller of Taxes Made Simple, Inc., sharing financial expertise.
• Amanda Dalpiaz, an accounting professor at Walsh University.
• Jenna McKean, a hospital attorney at Milligan Pusateri Co., LPA.
• Amy VanLew, general curator at Raptor Hallow Sanctuary.
• Julia Spero and Willie Shoemaker, veterinary technicians from For Paws Animal Hospital.
• Amy Lane, advisor at NEOMED.
• Abbie Gurdy, environmental specialist at Marathon Petroleum Company.
• Emily Armbrust and Erica Montbach, aerospace engineers from NASA Glenn Research Center.

“This event helped our students see the real-world application of their learning and sparked curiosity about their futures,” said Beshore. “The conversations with speakers will have a lasting impact as students navigate their academic and career journeys.”

With events like this, GlenOak continues to inspire students to dream big and pursue careers in STEM. For more information, please contact GlenOak High School at glenoak@plainlocal.org.