Why Attend Invent It. Build It.?
Cost: The cost to attend is only $5! Financial assistance for groups over 50 is available upon request.
Event Location:
Los Angeles Convention Center
West Hall
1201 South Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, California 90015
Studies have shown that girls perform at similar levels as their male counterparts, but their confidence and interest in engineering and math decline between 11-13 years old. Why? A lack of support, resources and programming designed to encourage their interest in STEM. As part of the mission of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), the Invent It. Build It. (IIBI) program was created as a solution to this problem.
IIBI aims to build pre-college students’ confidence and interest in STEM by combining creativity, innovation, exploration through hands-on activities and learning firsthand from SWE members and their peers. This is achieved through a four-pronged approach:
Get ready to get your hands dirty! Discover your STEM identity and level up your exploration as students express their creative and innovative sides of engineering and technology. Students will have an opportunity to engage and work with peers and real engineers through one to three hands-on engineering activities that focus on an engineering discipline, skills-building, teamwork and ingenuity.
Step into the next level of your STEM journey! Engaged in STEM opportunities in your local community? Join this program for an elevated experience, putting problem solving skills and engineering knowledge to work! Students will engage in more challenging hands-on activities with their peers and real engineers focused on an engineering discipline, skills-building, teamwork and ingenuity.
Parents and educators play a crucial role in girls’ success in pursuing an engineering career. At this event, SWE highlights this “village” of support by providing resources to better advocate for girls in STEM. Parents/guardians and STEM advocates such as teachers, counselors and administrators are encouraged to learn more from a panel of industry professionals and SWE member experts about engineering career options, scholarships, college admissions and available resources to prepare students for college.
Supported by:
Toolkits & Resources
- Download – PDF Document (External Link)
- Download – ZIP File (External Link)
Attendees will not only participate in STEM learning and engagement, but they will take part in the following activities:
- Networking breakfast with SWE members and industry professionals
- Work on hands-on engineering activities.
- Meet students, STEM advocates, SWE members, and engineers as part of the local community to continue engaging with after the event
- Participate in conversations with SWE members from around the world and learn how to navigate a career in a male-dominated field.
- Receive information on how to select the right college, where to find scholarships and how to be a successful engineer.
- Get fun swag and other goodies!
To ensure the safety of all minors attending IIBI, attendees under the age of 18 will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian who remains on the premises for the duration of the event. Please plan accordingly. SWE encourages parents and guardians to participate in the Parent & STEM Advocate program track or wait in the Parent/Guardian Lounge while onsite.
SWE has more opportunities available for students interested in STEM. Join SWENext to gain access to various programs, mentors and resources designed to develop leadership skills and self-confidence to #BeThatEngineer. Although SWENext focuses on girls, all students are encouraged to get involved. Are you an adult advocate or educator? Find out ways you can participate and provide support by joining the community.
Questions about IIBI? Please email us at outreach@swe.org
