Highlighted by immersive experiments and inspiration to spare, the 2025 Femme in STEM event is slated for Saturday, Sept. 27, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (NCAFF). The Aquarium brings together a stellar lineup of scientists who share exciting activities with visitors.
For the Aquarium, it is important for young girls to see someone like themselves in STEM fields. Research shows that starting around middle school, girls start losing interest in science and other STEM subjects. With scientists representing more than 30 organizations, the Femme in STEM event is eye-opening and can create excitement about science fields for anyone who visits.
“The Aquarium created Femme in STEM to showcase the variety of STEM fields that are open for career paths by having visitors engage in meaningful ways with people working in those fields,” said Gail Lemiec, unique experiences coordinator, NCAFF. “We are heartened to hear how impactful this event is to both the visitors and the scientists.”
Begun in 2019, now more than 1,500 visitors come through the doors annually for Femme in STEM, which is included with an Aquarium visit. Online tickets are required to visit the Aquarium and can be reserved at NCAFF Tickets.
The event aims to spark an interest in the world and how to study and learn more about it. The Aquarium works to save species and the people who are doing that work are in STEM fields.
The daylong event is also a celebration of diverse voices in STEM fields. Many exhibitors appreciate seeing so many women peers and colleagues out for the day. The Aquarium welcomes more exhibitors. Find out more about the event and apply to be an exhibitor at Femme in STEM.
About the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is just south of Kure Beach, a short drive from Wilmington on U.S. 421 and less than a mile from the Fort Fisher ferry terminal. The Aquarium is one of three Aquariums and a pier that make up the North Carolina Aquariums, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The mission of the Aquarium is to inspire appreciation and conservation of our aquatic environments. The Aquarium features a 235-000-gallon sand tiger shark habitat, an albino alligator, a bald eagle, a loggerhead sea turtle habitat and two families of mischievous Asian small-clawed otters.
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission: $15 ages 13-61; $13 children ages 3-12; $14 seniors (62 and older) and military with valid identification; NC EBT card holders: $3. Free admission for children 2 and younger and N.C. Aquarium Society members and N.C. Zoo members. *EBT rate is applicable to a maximum of four tickets.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.