This week Drexel University is helping host the Exelon Foundation’s STEM Leadership Academy, with a group of all-female high school students in attendance.

Sixty juniors and seniors were selected, from the Greater Philadelphia area, for the weeklong experience which focused on climate change this year.

The program was formed by a Fortune 100 energy company, Exelon Corporation, with the mission to give young women in high school hands-on experiences in STEM, energy, and sustainability. Participants get the opportunity to learn from women working in STEM and business leaders.

“Exelon and PECO are very dedicated, committed to making sure that we’re here to fill that gender gap that exists within the STEM field,” said Maya Garcia, a worker at Exelon.

Aliyana Banner, a former STEM Leader Academy student now serves as a student mentor. Banner has plans to attend Drexel University in the fall on a full scholarship which she won through STEM Academy.

“It helps to see that there are so many other young women who are interested in STEM and want to be in this environment,” Banner said.

While attending the camp students also get the opportunity to take field trips and network with others.

Simone Richardson, a rising junior at George Washington Carver High School of Engineering & Science and camp attendee, spoke about what the camp has done for her.

“Civil engineering is the field that I want to go to, so I thought it would be great for me to be here, to learn more, and to adapt,” Richardson said.

Throughout the camp, attendees participate in different activities and projects to help further their knowledge in different areas.

Visit exelonstemacademy.org for future program dates and the application process.