Marvel launches new initiative to encourage girls in the STEM fields

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Marvel! Fucking awesome. They’re launching an initiative to encourage girls in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) fields of education.

Polygon:

Marvel is launching a new program to encourage more teenage girls to explore the possibility of a career in scientific fields.

The studio has partnered with the National Academy of Sciences’ Science & Entertainment exchange, according to Marvel’s website, and is offering girls between the ages of 15 and 18 the chance to submit video proposals for scientific ideas that could have a resounding effect on the world today and in the future.

The program will coincide with the launch of Marvel’s next film in its Cinematic Universe, Captain America: Civil War. In an introductory video to the program, actress Elizabeth Olsen — who plays Scarlet Witch — said the project was launched to encourage young girls to explore their own potential in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields.

Five chosen finalists will have the opportunity to visit Marvel Studios in Los Angeles to present their ideas to a panel of judges. Of those five finalists, one girl will be chosen for an opportunity to intern for the studio, although the company doesn’t mention what that internship would entail or which department it would be in.

Those interested in applying can do so up until 9 p.m. PT on March 26. The full listing of contest rules and regulations can be found here.