Do more guys become “scientists” than do girls? Yes, but it has nothing to do with any differences in abilities.I started college with a desire to become a scientists of some kind and I did–I taught secondary science and was a wife and mom.
Most would not describe teaching and homemaking as being a scientists. But, I do. As a chemists I’ve solved lots of cleaning problems for my husband and boys–from cleaning car filters and other grungy parts to churning butter during our farming phase.For instructions on how even very young learners can churn butter, see CHURNING BUTTER.
I suggest that all girls take as much science and math in high school and college as possible. I can guarantee that you will use it whether you choose to be a homemaker and/or an astronaut.
The girls in the photo have entered a national rocket building contest. Their objective was to design, build and launch a model rocket to an altitude of 750 feet with a flight time of 45 seconds and a raw-egg payload situated horizontally to mimic the position of an astronaut. The egg had to return to earth unbroken in order for the launch to qualify.
I love the decorations on the rocket. The purple flower immediately caught my eye. Their flare for being creative doesn’t affect their chances of winning the competition. Its the results of their work that counts.
The contest, sponsored by the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) and the National Association of Rocketry, is designed to encourage students to consider careers in aerospace. Great jobs in the field will be abundant as almost 60 percent of the U.S. aerospace workforce is 45 or older and retiring in large numbers, according to AIA statistics.
Amidst the Hubble Telescope space walks, the aerospace industry is working to inspire the next generation of rocket scientists. With nearly 60 percent of aerospace workers above 50 and nearing retirement, the industry is facing a looming workforce crisis because not enough students are pursuing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) degrees in college. The Team America Rocketry Challenge (TARC) is one program inspiring future space walkers and the National Finals took place on Saturday, May 16m 2009 at Great Meadow in The Plains, Va., where the top 100 teams of middle and high school students from across the country competed for the title.
For information about being part of next years rocket challence, see Aerospace Industries Association.