The Girls of Steel was founded in the fall of 2010 at Carnegie Mellon University’s Field Robotics Center. Initially, a FIRST Robotics Competition team consisting of 24 girls from 12 different schools, and 4 different educational options, it’s now a full-scale, year-round, STEM & Robotics program for co-ed students K-12, although female students remain their focus. The program welcomes applications from students in the greater Pittsburgh area, regardless of financial status.

The program is fortunate and grateful to have the support of Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) and the Field Robotics Center. CMU serves as a central location for all the girls in the high school and grades 8 & 9 programs, coming from over 20 different schools, to learn and actively explore the field of robotics.

The name “Girls of Steel” was decided through a team brainstorming session. It meshes perfectly with the central image of their logo–Rosie the Riveter with a robotic arm. Rosie was made during World War II, illustrating the power of women who took over jobs in factories (producing munitions, etc.) when the men went to war.

“We Can Do It.” Rosie’s famous saying and the symbolism of female empowerment allow girls in the Girls of Steel programs to feel that they are making a big contribution. In a male-dominated field, the Girls of Steel believe that it is crucial for women and girls feel respected as strong, hard workers.

Girls of Steel does not discriminate in admission, participation, employment, or administration of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap or disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, ancestry, belief, veteran status, or genetic information. Furthermore, as a part of Carnegie Mellon University, Girls of Steel does not discriminate and is required not to discriminate in violation of federal, state, or local laws or executive orders.