MAY 17, 2025–8:34 AM

The Rancho Santa Fe Women’s Fund members were recently treated to an update from Sarah Tuakli Cooper, the Elementary Institute of Science Executive Director, on their unique and innovative Girls Take Flight program.

This program, which encourages high school girls to pursue careers in engineering, was one of the RSFWF grant award recipients from the 2023-2024 grant cycle. The program’s distinct focus on aeronautics and technology, particularly through Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) – also known as drones– sets it apart. The young women learn mechanical engineering and computer science skills in a supportive environment, responding to the critical need to increase diversity in STEM industries, according to a news release.

As the first drone program for high school females in the United States, it was a bold new venture that continues to innovate and improve with every cohort. It is a new approach to a time-worn problem by combining skill attainment in a female-centric and female-led learning environment; it also addresses the issues and obstacles faced by women who enter male-dominated fields, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) women, the news release stated.

In college, less than a quarter of women choose engineering and computer science majors, and less than half of these women pursue careers in those fields. One reason that women do not pursue these degrees is the lack of support in what continues to be male-dominated industries, according to the news release.

Working as a drone pilot helps build connections and networks in STEM that supportcollege completion, gain work experience, and obtain employment after graduation. Drone piloting is a growing industry, with the global drone market expected to grow from$26.3 billion in 2021 to $41.3 billion by 2026.

However, drones continue to be a field needing more female representation. According to 2023 data, only 7.9 percent of drone pilots are female. Through the Girls Take Flight practicum, 50 high school girls under the age of 18 have earned their FAA 107 Remote Pilot Certification. To date, every Girls Take Flight participant has enrolled in college after high school graduation, and three participants are currently pursuing commercial pilot careers, the news release stated.

The target population is female high school students who either attend a school or reside in the ethnically diverse, low-income communities of southeastern San Diego,City Heights, and Paradise Hills. These neighborhoods are most affected by deficits in STEM education. One hundred percent of the students meet the criteria for federal assistance.

The ethnic breakdown of students served by EIS is 32 percent Hispanic, 21 percent African American, 23 percent Caucasian, 14 percent Asian/Pacific Islander, and 10 percent other ethnicities.

In 2023, Girls Take Flight served 82 high school girls, including 62 in the kick-off events who were introduced to drone careers and female STEM professionals; 20 participated in a week-long drone camp, and 10 participated in the complete drone practicum.

Students are tracked for post-program results, including job placement, post-secondary education plans, college acceptance, names of the colleges, and any scholarships received.

The Girls Take Flight program strives for 90 percent completion by participating students each year. To date, 100 percent of Girls Take Flight participants have entered post-secondary education after high school. This is a testament to the program’s success in preparing these young women for their future careers, the news release stated.

Through the power of collective giving, the Rancho Santa Fe Women’s Fund has been a catalyst for positive change in the San Diego community. Since its inception in 2004, the RSFWF has donated over $5.7 million to 165 local nonprofit organizations and projects, making a significant difference in the lives of many.

On May 15th, the RSF Women’s Fund will host the Grant Awards Luncheon at the Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club, where the top-ranked proposals will receive grant awards.

In addition to making grants that impact the community, the Women’s Fund provides opportunities for women to connect and engage. RSFWF members can attend events, network with other women, participate in service projects, and learn about important community issues.

To learn more about the RSF Women’s Fund or become a member, visit www.rsfwomensfund.org.