To help more women acquire skills in science, technology, engineering and math, Microsoft Canada hosted approximately 100 girls aged 14 to 17 from across the GTA for a day-long skills development and mentorship conference in Mississauga.

“Women are dramatically underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. Seven out of 10 girls are interested in STEM but only two out of 10 will pursue it in college or university,” said Staci Trackey Meagher, VP of Enterprise and Partner Group for Microsoft Canada.

She added that the company “wants to help change that by inspiring and encouraging girls to pursue their interest in STEM.”

Microsoft Canada says technology holds tremendous opportunity for people around the world to do more and achieve more in their lives. However, young people face an opportunity divide – a gap between those who have access to the skills and opportunities they need to succeed and those who do not.

The company created DigiGirlz, part of Microsoft YouthSpark, a global commitment to empowering young people with opportunities for acquiring the training and tools to succeed in employment and entrepreneurship in our increasingly digital economy.

DigiGirlz Day events are held around the world and allow students to interact with Microsoft employees and managers to gain exposure to careers in business and technology and to get an inside look at what it’s like to work at Microsoft.

It provides girls with career planning assistance, information about technology and business roles, thought-provoking exercises and interesting Microsoft product demonstrations.

The future innovators and leaders were joined by Mississauga Mayor, Bonnie Crombie and Microsoft Canada VP Mary-Ellen Anderson.