Tech Trek

Tech Trek is a week-long, immersive STEM camp for girls entering 8th grade. Led by AAUW California, the program gives students the chance to live on a college campus, explore hands-on science and technology, and connect with women pursuing and leading in STEM fields. For more than 20 years, AAUW Berkeley has proudly sponsored local students to attend Tech Trek and discover what’s possible for their futures.
The camps themselves are staffed by female AAUW members and local community volunteers committed to the mission of helping girls navigate an often-challenging path to STEM studies and careers.
Tech Trek is designed to spark curiosity, confidence, and long-term interest in STEM, while campers spend a full week on campus experiencing the feel of college life

Student Selection

Each year, middle school teachers nominate students who show promise and interest in STEM. With parent or guardian permission, nominated students submit an application that includes a short personal essay.
Members of the AAUW Berkeley selection committee review applications and interview candidates. Most of the process is coordinated online through CampDoc, the statewide platform used by AAUW CA.

AAUW Berkeley Branch’s Role

While Tech Trek is organized and administered by AAUW California, the program depends on local branches like Berkeley to make participation possible. Berkeley girls have attended camp at Sonoma State University, UC Santa Cruz, Stanford and Mills College across the 20+ years we have participated.

The AAUW Berkeley Branch:

    • Works with local schools to identify nominees
    • Reviews essays and interviews student applicants
    • Raises scholarship funds to sponsor campers
    • Serves as an ongoing point of connection for students after camp
    • Welcomes past campers back as ambassadors and emerging STEM leaders

Our relationship with each camper extends beyond the week at camp; we stay engaged and encourage them as they continue exploring STEM opportunities.

Contribute

Tech Trek is made possible through community support. You can help us continue sending Berkeley students to camp by:

  • Connecting us with local teachers or schools
  • Volunteering on our selection committee
  • Sharing this program with families in your network
  • Individuals and employers can make contributions to help fund the camperships

The checks should be made out to AAUW-CA Special Projects Fund (AAUW CA SPF) with Berkeley Branch in the memo and given to the Branch Treasurer, Berkeley Branch mailing address:941 The Alameda, Berkeley, CA 94707. The AAUW CA SPF is a 501(c)(3) organization recognized as a charitable organization for Federal tax purposes.

Interested in Tech Trek or have questions? Contact us at berkeleyaauw@gmail.com