Microsoft Store has partnered with Girl Scouts of USA (GSUSA) to launch free STEM badge workshops for Girl Scouts troops at Microsoft Stores across the country.

The badge workshops will help younger Girl Scouts, from Daisies to Cadettes, earn five badges in four STEM areas: robotics, computer expertise, digital photography and movie-making.

The partnership aims to give girls vital digital skills and foster leadership qualities to help close the gender gap in STEM fields.

In its "Closing the STEM Gap" study, Microsoft found girls lose interest in STEM and computer science as they get older. In middle school, 56% of girls know how to pursue a STEM career. Unfortunately, post high school, that drops to 42%.



The program began earlier this year with a pilot project for 200 girls in various states across the U.S. Moving forward, troop leaders can arrange workshops with a community development specialist at their local Microsoft Store.

The partnership will also feature a leadership series at the Stores with former Girl Scouts and female STEM experts to inspire older Girl Scouts on the importance of education and careers in STEM.

For more details, visit the Microsoft Store community page.

To learn more about the program and impact of the STEM workshops, visit Microsoft Stories.

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