Women's Introduction to Engineering (WIE) was initiated in 1981 to attract academically talented students to the field of engineering. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of career opportunities and a realistic introduction to engineering education before career decisions are made. Supporting objectives include: a) to introduce participants to the academic demands of college engineering study through direct experience; b) to assist students in planning preparatory coursework at the secondary level, increasing their chances of admission and retention in college engineering programs; c) to enhance career planning skills and promote consideration of non-traditional fields of study. The geographic target region includes the 32 southernmost counties in Illinois, a rural area with 112 secondary schools and a median enrollment of 300. The 1988 summer program will be a two-week residential session for 15 students on the Southern Illinois University Carbondale campus, complemented by a research presentation follow-up activity and a secondary educators'workshop.
