Marta Garcia: Inspired by Technology
Marta Garcia is a high school senior. In the past years she has been working on a variety of projects. The projects are part of her work with Techbridge, a nonprofit organization. Techbridge was set up in 2000 to increase the number of women in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). It offers a range of after-school activities for students.
Techbridge focuses on learning by doing. It attracts Marta's interest. “When I was a kid," says Marta, “I wasn't into English. I was really into technology and math. My older sister was in Techbridge. She encouraged me to join. It was something for me to do after school. I found it pretty fun."
Marta has created a complex music-making machine. Her latest project is a digital piano, which shows how far her STEM skills have advanced. Marta's instructors have been following her progress closely. “I've seen her master STEM skills," says Techbridge CEO Linda Kekelis. “She's very confident to face challenges. She isn't afraid of temporary setbacks."
Marta plans to attend Smith College this fall. She is still drawn to math and technology. But she does not want to be limited to one particular course of study.
“I'm not sure what I want to do after college graduation," says Marta. “I know a STEM career is an option." The future will be filled with jobs that require STEM skills. So her love of technology and her experience with Techbridge will serve her well.