Vectren Sponsors UE Engineer Program

Every year, highly educated, qualified engineers become more scarce nationwide. Thats why, for years, Vectren Corporation has dedicated itself to attracting diverse students to the field of engineering. And on Tuesday, Vectren will join with the University of Evansville for an exciting announcement regarding the Universitys OPTIONS for Girls program. "In todays business world, engineers and computer scientists are in high demand," Vectren Chairman and CEO Niel Ellerbrook said. "It is imperative that we work together to attract and encourage students in engineering and computer science careers. We must take an active role, such as supporting programs like OPTIONS for Girls, to help fill the pipeline." Ellerbrook will be joined at the announcement by UE President Stephen Jennings, as well as Philip Gerhart, dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science. "Were excited about Vectrens continued involvement in this very important program," Jennings said. "OPTIONS for Girls has been a wonderfully successful program for the University of Evansville, and it has gained momentum every year since its inception. So were looking forward to the new opportunities that will come with Vectrens involvement." OPTIONS for Girls, which began at UE In 1992, acquaints young women talented in math and sciences with the opportunities and challenges associated with careers in engineering. Every summer, high school students (through OPTIONS for High School Girls) and middle school students (through OPTIONS for Middle School Girls) attend five-day programs where they meet and are mentored by current engineering students, faculty, and practicing female professionals. Through the program, the students - who are recruited nation-wide - also are introduced to a variety of activities, including an initial seminar; team building exercises; mini-classes in Civil, Electrical, Mechanical and Computer Engineering and Computer Science; and numerous other mentoring programs that end with a closing program where the students become the presenters. "OPTIONS for Girls is a great opportunity for middle and high school girls to learn about engineering and computer science career options," Ellerbrook said. UEnvision 2010, an $80 million comprehensive capital campaign, will transform the University by growing the University endowment to increase student scholarship and academic support, create new learning environments and improve existing facilities.