Tech-Xploration, through its comprehensive program of concentrated summer work coupled with tutoring and mentoring by female professionals in scientific and technical fields, and academic year follow-up, will address the under-representation of females in engineering technology. NJCATE's Adventure Ride Learning Module will be used as a guide for the Tech-Xploration student projects. The module integrates problem solving, teaming, and communication skills with technical components.

Young women will engage in the adventure of scientific discovery through the design, development and construction of a hands-on engineering project based upon the use of an interdisciplinary module developed by NJCATE. The module incorporates science, technology, engineering and mathematics instruction. Teaming, problem solving and communication skills are developed. Engineers and technicians will familiarize the participants with the technology underlying theme park rides so that they can apply this information, along with learned scientific concepts, to their projects.

Physical empowerment will supplement the intellectual component with karate instruction as an integral part of the summer camp. Through karate, young women will gain strength, discipline and a sense of confidence.

This project will have a critical impact on the future technical workforce. The project not only addresses the causes of female non-participation in engineering technology but also targets students from minority and/or economically disadvantaged school districts who often do no receive the same academic preparation as the rest of the population. Through these initiatives the number of majority and minority women in engineering technology fields will increase.