We are thrilled about the participation of the students from the Akademisches Gymnasium Graz in our TechDays! During the 4-day workshop, 13 young ladies aged 14 to 17 unleashed their creativity, built robots, and took their first steps in programming.

Ziel dieser Aktivitätswoche war es, das Interesse junger Frauen an technischen Berufen zu wecken, da Frauen in Österreich in den Bereichen Mathematik, Informatik, Naturwissenschaften und Technik (MINT) noch immer unterrepräsentiert sind. Gefördert vom Österreichischen Frauenfonds LEA, haben die Departments Innovation Management, Automation Technology and IT & Business Informatics der FH CAMPUS 02 den Teilnehmerinnen Tätigkeiten rund um das Innovieren, Designen, Entwickeln, Bauen und Programmieren technischer Lösungen nähergebracht. Die Woche diente als Orientierungshilfe und bot erste praktische Erfahrungen in technischen Berufen und Studiengängen.

The 4-day workshop was divided into three main activities:

Day 1: Innovate

In the creativity workshop, students learned how to generate new ideas and develop prototypes using creativity techniques. Interactive exercises and practical examples stimulated their imagination and encouraged them to develop new solutions. They were introduced to business models and strategies and learned how to transform their ideas into tangible products. This hands-on experience encouraged them to think confidently and innovatively, preparing them better for future challenges in the field of innovation.

Days 2 and 3: Develop

Participants worked on a mini-robot project and learned the basics of mechatronic prototype development. In practical sessions, they constructed and manufactured robot parts using 3D printing and laser cutting, soldered circuit boards and electronics, and assembled everything. This gave them insights into the study of automation technology and internal company collaboration.

Day 4: Programming

After a theoretical introduction to programming and artificial intelligence, students applied their knowledge practically. They learned how to bring robots to life through programming and gained insights into machine learning algorithms. By the end of the day, participants had their first glimpse into the field of software development and the content of the business informatics study program.

What is FIONA?

FIONA (Women's Initiative for Organization, Network, and Training) is the springboard for women into the world of technology. At CAMPUS 02 University of Applied Sciences, we offer a diverse program that supports women on their way to technical study programs and throughout their studies. Our project is aimed at all girls and women who are ready to dive into the world of technology and achieve great things.

Our Mission:

We offer pre-study coaching to dispel fears and prejudices and facilitate a smooth entry into technical study programs. Additionally, we organize taster weeks for female students and provide support for final theses (diploma theses/VWA).

To ensure that female students are optimally prepared for their technical subjects, we offer targeted support in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and technology. This includes learning cafés and an online platform to support and enhance the learning process.

Another central concern is to promote and maintain a strong network. Through regular meetings, mentoring, and specialist lectures, we strengthen the exchange and cohesion among female students, graduates, and alumni in STEM subjects.

Further information about the FIONA project and registration for the program points can be found on our website: https://www.campus02.at/unsere-hochschule/zentrale-services/gender-diversity-management/projekt-fiona/

This project is funded by the Austrian Fund for the Empowerment and Promotion of Women and Girls.