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Ford and Girls Who Code Look to Close Gender Gap in Tech, Education

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It was announced this week that Ford Research and Innovation Center Palo Alto will be partnering with Girls Who Code in order to create more opportunities for women in the tech and engineering fields.


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Ford Motor Company Fund will help supplement the educational and professional growth of Girls Who Code members in NoCal, covering more than 180 young women between the sixth and 12th grade throughout the Bay Area. Members from the Palo Alto center will mentor the young women and provide crucial hands-on experience in a research laboratory setting.

The endeavor is aimed at closing the gender gap in tech and engineering. Currently, women only make up 18% of all United States computer science graduates, down considerably from 27% in 2001 and 37% in 1984.

“The use of technology is growing exponentially among young people, yet it is becoming increasingly difficult to attract them to technology-related educational programs,” said Marcy Klevorn, Ford chief information officer. “Ford is working with Girls Who Code to educate them on the many exciting career opportunities available in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. This kind of outreach grows more important each year.”

Ford is committed to engaging students from all walks in STEM education, particularly with regards to studies pertinent to the automotive industry. This latest partnership with Girls Who Code is part of Ford Fund’s $1 million education, safety, and disaster relief initiative in Northern California.


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