Now and into the future engineers and innovators will face new challenges and be called upon to play a vital role in helping solve the world's future health, safety, environmental and economic problems. To help prepare these leaders, National Engineers Week Foundation presents the 5th annual Global Marathon For, By and About Women in Engineering. Sponsored by Agilent, Motorola Foundation, and the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, this live, 24-hour worldwide forum provides information, insight, and inspiration for women and girls on topics related to careers in engineering and technology. The Global Marathon begins at noon (EDT) Wednesday, March 11th and runs continuously through noon (EDT), Thursday, March 12th. Marathon programming is being organized and facilitated in six regions: North America, South America, UK/Europe, Africa/Middle East, India, and China.
This year's Global Marathon, themed 'Connecting Women to Engineer a Better Future; Because Dreams Need Doing', will feature virtual programming from around the world focusing on the benefits and wide-ranging career possibilities for women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Participants will also be able to participate in post-marathon networking opportunities. The Global Marathon coincides with Women's History Month (March) in the U.S. and International Women's Day (March 8, 2009).
In addition to the Global Marathon's 24 hours of virtual programming, a global text messaging contest will also be held, thanks to Motorola. Participants can describe "The Dream You'd Do" as an innovative engineer or scientist in 40 words or less and post their entries on the Global Marathon website. Those taking part in the Marathon worldwide can vote on their favorites. One winner per region will be announced on March 16th, with the winner receiving a mobile phone from Motorola.
For more information or to be part of the Global Marathon and to find coordinators in all regions, please visit http://www.eweek.org/EngineersWeek/GlobalMarathon.aspx .
