H.R. No. 388

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, The Rockwall High School robotics team has created an off-season robotics event called STEM Gals to support and celebrate women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; and

WHEREAS, Current estimates indicate that the U.S. will be short approximately one million STEM workers by 2022; since women make up only around 25 percent of the current STEM-related workforce, increased representation of women in these fields could help solve this problem; in the words of Woodie Flowers, "Technology needs women more than women need technology"; and

WHEREAS, In order to encourage women to pursue STEM careers, the Rockwall robotics team, FIRST Robotics Competition Team 1296 Full Metal Jackets, launched STEM Gals in 2018; this female-driven event allows young women to explore the range of opportunities offered within STEM fields and to take on increased leadership roles in the competition by serving as hosts, referees, and judges; and

WHEREAS, The STEM Gals event is working to foster a more inclusive environment in STEM education, and in so doing, it is helping to ensure the continued strength and vitality of the Lone Star State and the nation as a whole; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas Legislature hereby recognize February 19, 2019, as STEM Gals Day at the State Capitol and extend to the Rockwall High School robotics team and all those associated with the STEM Gals event sincere best wishes for the future.

Holland

______________________________ Speaker of the House

I certify that H.R. No. 388 was adopted by the House on February 19, 2019, by a non-record vote.

______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House