Girls are keenly interested in science technology, engineering and math.

And they excel at it.

Yet they often don’t pursue STEM courses.

“The Girl Scouts are working to change that,” said Girl Scouts of SC Vice President Karen Kelly.

“The possibilities are truly endless,” Kelly said.

The Girl Scouts have introduced new “STEM Journeys and Badges.”

Engineering: Think Like an Engineer. Girls discover how to think like an engineer by participating in hands-on design challenges and completing a Take Action project.

Computer Science: Think Like a Programmer. Girls learn how programmers solve problems by participating in computational-thinking activities and complete a Take Action project.

Outdoor STEM: Think Like a Citizen Scientist. Girls participate in interactive activities to learn how scientists solve problems using the scientific method. Girls practice observation, collect data, and complete a citizen science project. Then they create their Take Action project.

Space Science: Just like real space scientists, girls will explore, observe, and investigate the Sun, Moon, and stars and discover that space is bigger and even more exciting than they may have imagined. Girls learn about the Universe and their place in it—and how real-life scientists and engineers make amazing discoveries about outer space.

Cybersecurity: Girls can become cyber sleuths, learn how to spot threats online, and discover how to identify “real” and “fake” messages.

Kelly said Girl Scouts who participate in girl-focused STEM programs:

• Become better problem-solvers, critical thinkers and inspirational leaders.

• Get better grades, earn scholarships and follow more lucrative careers.

• See STEM as the foundation for a meaningful and successful future.