IBM EX.I.T.E. Camps
IBM EX.I.T.E. Camps introduce girls to the
wonder and promise of technical careers
ibm.com/ibm/ibmgives/grant/education/camp.shtml
“EX.I.T.E. Camps make
math and science fun and
interesting for young
women by giving them
hands-on experience with
technology. These camps
can lead women to pursue
engineering and
technology careers and
allow them to be not just
consumers of technology,
but creators of technology
as well.”
Katherine Hegmann
Executive Staff
Integration Executive India
Technology has already transformed
the world more dramatically than any
other revolution in history. Yet, at a time
when opportunity has never been
greater, women are retreating from the
fields of science and technology in
alarming numbers.
Studies tell us that many girls begin
steering away from math and science
as early as middle school, when they
unknowingly make decisions about
courses that might carry life-long con-
sequences. Without the necessary
math and science background, their
chances for success in pursuing an
engineering or technical degree are
limited, along with the fulfilling careers
that these fields might offer.
Sparking imaginations since 1999
In the summer of 1999, IBM initiated a
pilot technology camp staffed by IBM
women volunteers with technical
backgrounds. The goal was simple:
spark the interest of girls entering sev-
enth and eighth grades in the fall so
that they continue taking the math and
science classes that will position them
for future careers in these fields.
Since 1999, more than 7,500 girls have attended IBM EX.I.T.E. Camps throughout the world. The
experience focuses on math and science careers.
EX.I.T.E. attendees are matched through IBM MentorPlace with IBM employees who offer online advice
throughout the school year.
“We deliberately reach out to girls who
are on the cusp of interest—students
who show an interest, but not an apti-
tude yet in these areas. Many are
young women from diverse ethnic and
academic backgrounds who may