Girl Scout Troop Visits Civil Engineering Research and Education Center to Learn About Concrete

Sarah Hernandez

Girl Scouts are instructed by graduate student Bailey Downing on how to mix a mortar-based cement at the Grady E. Harvell Civil Engineering Research and Education Center (CEREC).

Seven young Girl Scouts, ranging from first to third grade, recently explored the fascinating world of civil engineering during a hands-on event at the Grady E. Harvell Civil Engineering Research and Education Center at the U of A.

The troop — co-led by Sarah Hernandez, associate professor of civil engineering; Bailey Downing, graduate student in civil engineering; and Samantha Fish, a troop parent — got a firsthand experience in making mortar-based concrete, blending education with creativity. 

Guided by Downing, the girls learned about the essential materials and science behind concrete — a cornerstone of modern infrastructure. The event was designed to inspire early interest in the STEM fields — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — while providing a fun, interactive experience for the girls and their families, who joined in the day's activities. 

"This was such an exciting opportunity for the girls to see how civil engineering connects to everyday life," Hernandez said. "It's all about sparking curiosity at an early age and showing them that engineering can be both fun and impactful - and accessible to women." 

The girls worked together to mix and pour mortar into molds shaped like dogs, flowers and other playful designs. These molds not only made the activity engaging but also gave each participant a tangible keepsake of their engineering adventure. 

The event received strong support from the Department of Civil Engineering, with department head Micah Hale commending the initiative. "Outreach events like this are crucial for introducing young minds to engineering," Hale said. "It's inspiring to see our faculty and students take an active role in shaping the future of our field."

"Watching the girls light up as they mixed and poured the mortar was incredibly rewarding," said Downing, who balances her graduate studies with her role as a troop co-leader. "This hands-on experience showed them that they can build and create, just like engineers do." 

The event highlights the university's commitment to fostering STEM education and engaging the community. It also exemplifies the department's dedication to inclusivity, outreach and encouraging the next generation of engineers. 

The Civil Engineering Department and the Harvell Civil Engineering Research and Education Center look forward to hosting more events like this, aiming to inspire young minds and showcase the dynamic possibilities within engineering.