The Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (WiSTEM) Program at the University of Wisconsin–Platteville works to expand participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics by supporting all students who may face barriers to entry in these fields. Women in STEM fosters a connected, supportive community where undergraduate STEM students build strong academic and social foundations through mentoring, networking, professional development. We also engage in meaningful 5–12 outreach that sparks early interest in STEM and strengthens pathways for future learners.
Our mission is to create a supportive community where students will prosper both at UW-Platteville and in their future careers. To accomplish this goal, the Women in STEM Program offers many events for both pre-college and college students. All of the programs and events are planned and managed by the Women in STEM professional staff and student assistants.
Eligibility
UW-Platteville students within the following majors are served by the Women in STEM Program and the STEM Living Learning Community.
College of EMS: Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, EMS Undecided, Engineering Physics, Environmental Engineering, General Engineering Undecided, Industrial and Systems Engineering, Mathematics, Math Education, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, Sustainability and Renewable Energy Systems
College of BILSA: Agricultural Education, Animal Science, Biology, Construction Management, Diary Science, Ecological Restoration and Resource Management, Engineering Technology Management, Environmental Horticulture, Soil and Crop Science, Technology and Engineering Education
College of LAE: Environmental Science and Conservation, Forensic Investigation, Psychology, Science Education
College Programs
Many opportunities and events are available for current students.
STEM Living Learning Community is a residential community for first-year students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Located in Dobson Hall, the STEM LLC brings together students with shared academic interests to create a supportive environment where they can live, learn, and grow during their first year at UW–Platteville. The STEM LLC is for any student with a STEM major.
Peer Mentor Program supports first-year students by pairing them with an upper-class mentor in small groups. The program strives to help the student grow academically, socially, and professionally.
Professional Mentor Program pairs third and fourth year STEM students with industry mentors to support their transition from college to career. It emphasizes professional development, communication, career planning, and building confidence.
Creative Connections offers monthly opportunities for students to step away from the demands of school, explore their creativity, and connect with others in a welcoming environment.
Women in STEM Banquet celebrates the achievements of STEM students, offering students a chance to network with professionals. The event features dinner, inspiring speeches, and special recognition of graduates by the lead sponsor.
Plexus Women in STEM Center is an inclusive space where students can come together to network, study, and socialize. Features like a kitchenette, dual-monitor computers, collaboration station, and daytime staffing create a supportive and friendly environment for all students. The center is open to everyone.
Affiliated Student Organizations
The following organizations offer ways for UW-Platteville students to explore potential careers in the STEM field, access educational resources, and participate in professional development activities.
Society of Women Engineers seeks to stimulate students to achieve their full potential in careers as leaders and engineers, expand the image of the engineering profession, and demonstrate the value of diversity. Contact uwplatt.swe@outlook.com for more information.
Association for Computing Machinery-Women is for software engineering majors and computer science majors/minors and anyone who is interested in coding. The organization has socials, computing activities and professional development. It is also a great way to connect with other students and individuals in the field at nearby companies.
Pre-College Programs
We offer a variety of programs for pre-college students in fifth through twelfth grade, designed to spark curiosity, build essential skills, and empower students to dream big.
Pioneering Your Future in STEM is a one-day event held in February and March for 5th–8th grade students to explore STEM through hands-on sessions led by UW-Platteville students and faculty. It emphasizes critical thinking, problem solving, and the design process.
Women in STEM Career Day is a one-day event held in October for 9th–12th grade students to explore STEM careers. Through hands-on activities are led by UW-Platteville students and faculty, participants engage in creativity, problem solving, and real world challenges that make a positive impact.
STEM Launch is a one-day event for middle school students and is held at their local CESA building. STEM Launch is a collaboration between the Women in STEM Program, a Wisconsin CESA and an industry partner. For example, STEM Launch 10 is held at CESA 10 in Chippewa Falls and sponsored by Trane Technologies. The event offers an opportunity to engage in interactive STEM sessions with hands-on activities, helping students explore STEM in a fun and accessible way. If your company is interested in sponsoring, email wistemoutreach@uwplatt.edu.
STEM Odyssey is a one-day STEM escape room activity that is held in the Huff Family Innovation Center in Sesquicentennial Hall. Students work as a team to solve various STEM puzzles to save a community from zombies. One school is invited to attend each spring. If your school would be interested, email wistemoutreach@uwplatt.edu.
Girls Who Code Club is for 5th–12th grade students to learn computer science through real-world projects in robotics, and app and web development. Participants also connect with role models in tech fields like cybersecurity and software engineering. This event is held in the Huff Family Innovation Center in Sesquicentennial Hall. Contact gavind@uwplatt.edu for more information.