Devon Energy teaches young girls about science and math

The Southwest Alliance for Girl’s Enrichment (SAGE) STEAM Camp at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) returned to Devon Energy on June 12, bringing dozens of eighth-grade girls to one of the largest energy companies in the state. 

SAGE STEAM incorporates the arts and humanities into a week-long residential program focused on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Studies suggest adding the arts may help close the gender gap in STEM fields.

The campers took part in several hands-on demonstrations, including working with Microsoft’s HoloLensvirtual reality system, examining fossils and attending a talk about life as a scientist.

“Coming to Devon is a critical part of our activities,” said Lisa Appeddu, camp director at SAGE. “Nothing more clearly demonstrates the potential of learning and loving STEM to these girls than meeting women who are solving real-world problems.”

The young women also visited the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, which incorporates STEM concepts through exhibits about forensics and crime scene investigation.

Christina Rehkop, community relations director at Devon, said the company is hyperfocused on supporting STEM education.

“Today’s students will become tomorrow’s innovators,” Rehkop said. “That’s why Devon focuses on improving STEM education, especially for students who don’t often have a chance to work with the latest technology and tools.”