WIT Girls Career Exploration

WIT Girls Career Exploration

(formerly Job Shadow)

A Week-Long, Hands-On Tech Experience — Completely FREE for Rising 9th–12th Grade Girls

Applications for the upcoming year will open in the summer season.

What It Is & Why It Matters

WIT Girls Career Exploration (formerly Job Shadow) is an exciting annual program that gives high school girls the opportunity to explore careers in STEM by spending time inside real tech companies alongside working professionals across Georgia.

Through hands-on activities and direct interactions with industry professionals, participants gain the inspiration and confidence they need to pursue their future careers in STEM.

Key Benefits

  • 100% Free to Attend
  • Real-World Exposure — see what a career in tech actually looks like day to day
  • Mentorship & Connection — meet professionals who were once right where you are
  • Inspiration for the Future — discover fields you never knew existed

Over 100 girls participate each year across various counties in Georgia.

The Impact

Data indicates that the number of girls interested in STEM nearly doubles — from 26% to 41% — when they have a role model to inspire them. Career exploration experiences are crucial in supporting women's careers in STEM fields, and extending these opportunities to young women helps bridge the gender gap in technology.

A Resume & College Application Booster

Participation in WIT Girls Career Exploration shows colleges and future employers that you're proactive, eager to learn, and exposed to real-world tech environments. Students are encouraged to include it under sections like "Career Exploration," "Volunteer Experience," or "Professional Development." Many students mention this experience in college essays and scholarship applications — it helps you stand out!


How to Get Involved

Students

Spend time inside a real tech company — ask questions, make connections, and see what's possible for your future. It's a chance to explore exciting STEM careers firsthand.

Companies

Become a Career Exploration Host and open your doors to future female tech leaders. Showcase your company culture, promote diversity in STEM, and connect with passionate students.

Volunteers

Support the event by greeting students and assisting with logistics. Your time and energy help make the experience meaningful and memorable for everyone involved.


What Students Experience

In recent years, presentations have covered product management, artificial intelligence, software development, design thinking, and coding — with attendees also getting the chance to hear from top tech executives who share their career stories and key advice.

Past highlights include:

  • A cybersecurity escape room challenge centered on a ransomware breach, teaching teamwork, critical thinking, and prevention
  • Exploring how digital manipulation operates — sparking important conversations about ethics and digital identity
  • Tours of real tech operations centers, showing girls the 24/7 work that protects people's data globally

Student Testimonials

“I absolutely loved the program! My week with Equifax was amazing — I had no idea how many job opportunities they offer, and it was eye-opening to hear how many people working there didn’t initially think they’d end up in tech.”

— WIT Girls Career Exploration Participant

“At first, I wasn’t sure about pursuing technology since my interests were more aligned with the medical field and business. However, after learning that IT isn’t just about technology but also has a business side, I started considering it as a potential career path.”

— WIT Girls Career Exploration Participant