(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — Dec. 8, 2025) — As part of Computer Science Education Week, El Paso ISD is highlighting the many ways students are exploring technology, engineering, and innovation across the district. The El Paso ISD Career and Technical Education Department hosted its annual Girl Powered Event & VEX V5 Jingle Bot Jamboree on Friday, bringing together hundreds of female students for a dynamic day of inspiration, networking, and hands-on STEM exploration.
Held at the Starlight Event Center, the event connected girls enrolled in STEM Programs of Study with more than 30 exhibitors, including local employers, higher-education institutions, and industry professionals. The experience was designed to empower young women to envision themselves in high-demand careers like engineering, robotics, aerospace, healthcare, and skilled trades.
The event included breakout sessions, interactive demonstrations, robotics experiences, and one-on-one conversations with professionals who are shaping the region’s rapidly growing STEM workforce.
For many students, the event was more than a showcase, it was a moment of affirmation.
Jefferson High School student Destiny Mendoza, who is enrolled in a STEM. program at CCTE, said she attended the event to show other girls what is possible.
“There’s not that many girls in the trades,” Mendoza said. “I wanted other girls to see that there are careers like this out there for them that they can do. Events like these show young women that they too can do jobs like these.”
Mendoza hopes to one day work in aerospace at UTEP or pursue a career in welding.
CCTE machining instructor Benjamin Bautista said he sees firsthand how events like Girl Powered change students’ trajectories.
“This is a great networking event for our students,” Bautista said. “Some of them have gone on to earn internships at UTEP with the aerospace program. These events open doors for them and let them know what’s out there. Some companies are looking to hire summer interns, and this is a great opportunity for students to get their name out there.”
Students interested in healthcare also found new pathways to explore.
El Paso High School student Annelise Bustamante said the experience brought her one step closer to her dream of becoming a doctor.
“I came out to this event because I want to become a doctor someday,” Bustamante said. “I’m glad I came because I’m learning about so many opportunities in the medical field.”
Her classmate, Layla Flores, agreed.
“I plan on getting into the medical field, and after coming out here, it’s nice to know there’s a lot of job opportunities for us after we graduate,” Flores said.
The Girl Powered Event continues to grow each year as more students and partners recognize the importance of building inclusive pipelines into STEM fields. With a hands-on robotics competition, direct access to industry leaders, and exposure to postsecondary programs, the event reinforces El Paso ISD’s commitment to preparing students, especially young women, for the future workforce.
Organizers say the goal is simple: make sure every girl leaves the event knowing she belongs in STEM.
The district thanks the exhibitors, schools, teachers, and community partners who helped make the second annual Girl Powered Event a success and applauds the students whose ambition, curiosity, and talent continue to inspire.