From left are Rio Espino, Emersyn Moore, Sonia Zarate (Gridley Branch American Association of University Women Tech Trek coordinator), Gemma Ramirez, and Mary Lybrand at a Root Beer Float Meet and Greet at the Gridley Library on June 10 for University of California, Davis’ Tech Trek Camp. Not pictured is Lydia Thompson. Photo courtesy of the American Association of University Women

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - The Gridley Branch American Association of University Women held a Root Beer Float Meet & Greet for the 2025 Tech Trek girls at the Gridley Library on June 10.

Tech Trek is a one-week summer camp held at University of California, Davis providing science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) workshops based on discovery and exploration in those fields. It is designed to develop interest, excitement and self-confidence in young women who are entering the eighth-grade.

Six girls were nominated for Tech Trek and five are planning to attend the camp at UC Davis in July, including Rio Espino from Manzanita Elementary School with Mary Lybrand, Emersyn Moore, Gemma Ramirez and Lydia Thompson from Sycamore Middle School. Gina Payne is the alternate from Sycamore Middle School.

Since 1881, American Association of University Women, the American Association of University Women, has been promoted equity and education for women and girls. Tech Trek began in 1998 and is being expanded across the U.S.

Girls attend Tech Trek camps hosted by the American Association of University Women, California, on scholarships provided by American Association of University Women members, generous individuals, community organizations and memorial donations.

From participating middle schools in our area, seventh-grade science and math teachers recommend camper candidates who must pass through an extensive qualification process that includes an application, an essay and a personal interview.

Tech Trek campers from Gridley will stay in dorm rooms, participate in hands-on workshops and meet other young women from across Northern California. It is an exciting week where lifelong memories and friendships will be developed. Tech Trek campers are encouraged to continue to study science, technology, engineering and math subjects, ultimately pursuing a career in these fields.

Being nominated for Tech Trek is a great honor. They are commended for their achievements.