Recently, Studica had the pleasure of speaking with Yolanda Epps, Assistant Principal at Douglas Byrd High School and 3D-GREES Program Coordinator, about their innovative program. GREES is an acronym that stands for Girls Really Enjoy Engineering & Science. This program is an innovative practicum experience for girls designed to expose them to science, 3D technology, increase achievement and improve attendence. And it's working! Last year, this same group of girls missed 14 days of school each. This program really engaged the students and this year there were three students with perfect attendance. Most students missed three days of school max. This is a wonderful achievement but there is much more to it than that.

Yolanda was very passionate about this program. She was quick to point out that girls are interested in STEM education but you can't just position it as engineering or science. You have to dig a little deeper and find what really speaks to girls. She found that girls are often motivated by helping others so projects were designed with this end in mind. The girls get a sense of importance and really take ownership in their software projects. They create 3D simulations using 3ds Max design software, Unity game creation platform and Cubify Sculpt software design.

The 3D-GREES program recognizes that exposure was key for these girls. How would they know what the possibilites are if they are never made aware of them? The manipulation of software on a routine basis gives the girls confidence in their abilities. They build a solid working knowledge of the entire Autodesk entertainment creation suite. They have even been exposed to 3D printing. They make creations, make it digital using 3ds Max, import it to a 3D printer. These girls can imagine, design and create. The students are thrown into technology and this molds them into natural problem solvers. This builds their confidence, helps in their studies and gives them the ability to create their own futures. We at Studica commend Yolanda and 3D-GREES on such an inspiring and much needed program.

Yolanda asked us to extend special thank you to all those who helped make the program a success including, but certainly not limited to, the Great 3D Academy, Jeff Epps, Cumberland County Schools, Bragg Regional Alliance, ManTech, Karyn Dickerson and other volunteers.

Author: Kristie Laettner