IBM Announces Series of Programs Through Engineers Week 2005

IBM today announced a series of programs to help grow the talent pool for future technical innovators. 

"Extensive work must be done to champion improvements in the U.S. education system and alter attitudes of young people toward careers in math, science and technology -- especially young women and underrepresented minorities," said Nicholas Donofrio, IBM's senior vice president of technology and manufacturing.

For the 16th consecutive year, IBM will join other companies, government agencies, and professional engineering societies in reaching out to K-12 students to increase their awareness and appreciation of engineering careers and further encourage them to continue their studies of science, math, and technology.

Engineers Week, founded in 1951 by the National Society of Professional Engineers, is dedicated to raising public awareness of engineers' positive contributions to the quality of life. Engineers Week promotes recognition among parents, teachers and students of the importance of a technical education. By emphasizing a high level of math and science literacy, Engineers Week motivates youth to pursue engineering careers, thereby providing a diverse and vigorous engineering workforce.

In 2001, IBM was instrumental in launching a new focus on women and girls during Engineers Week entitled, "Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day", which has now been incorporated as a regular feature of Engineers Week.