TWiST × Texas Instruments Technology Workshop: Empowering Women in STEM
For the second time, the Taiwan Women in Science and Technology Association (TWiST) partnered with Texas Instruments to host a STEM event for nearly 100 participants at National Chengchi University’s Public and Business Administration Education Center.
Through a hands-on sensor-light project, an introduction to semiconductor principles, and an interactive Kahoot! quiz, the event inspired middle school girls to explore technology. TWiST’s president also attended as a female role model, encouraging the students to pursue their dreams and become the next generation of women in STEM.
As STEM education receives growing attention, the Taiwan Women in Science and Technology Association (TWiST) once again partnered with Texas Instruments (TI) to hold the Texas Instruments Technology Workshop × TWiST STEM Education Event on August 8, 2025, at National Chengchi University’s Public and Business Administration Education Center.
Nearly 100 junior high school students from Ginling Girls’ High School, Sacred Heart High School for Girls, and Wesley Girls’ High School participated. Through semiconductor education, a hands-on sensor-light project, and an interactive Kahoot! game, the event strengthened the girls’ curiosity about technology and confidence in exploring STEM.
Lighting Up the Possibilities of Technology Through Hands-On Learning
This year’s event expanded significantly, growing from one participating school to three and welcoming nearly 100 students. Strong registration reflected the students’ enthusiasm and positive response to STEM activities. TWiST emphasized that this collaboration was not only an opportunity to promote STEM but also a starting point for cultivating future women in technology.
“We hope hands-on activities and practical exploration will help female students recognize that technology is all around them—and imagine themselves pursuing it in the future.”
The event connected technology with everyday life through a DIY sensor-light project combining LEDs and sensing technology. Students learned the semiconductor principles behind the device and developed greater interest in engineering and technology. Guided by Texas Instruments volunteers, they assembled their own circuits and transformed theoretical knowledge into visible, working results.
Taking Action to Cultivate Innovative Technology Talent
Texas Instruments has long supported STEM education as part of its commitment to local communities. Over the past two years, the company has focused particularly on empowering girls in technology and cultivating the next generation of female innovators.
Pao-Jen Lai, General Manager of Texas Instruments Taiwan Assembly and Test Operations, said:
“Texas Instruments believes that innovation comes from people with diverse backgrounds. Through the Technology Workshop, we hope to reach female students at an important stage of career exploration. Engaging lessons and industry introductions can inspire more girls to explore opportunities in the technology sector.”
The event featured two key educational components. A professor from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, who is also a TWiST member, worked with Texas Instruments engineers to refine the curriculum. TI volunteers also served as instructors and guided students throughout the activities.
Cross-school group activities and an interactive Kahoot! game further allowed students to learn, collaborate, and connect with one another.
Addressing Gender Imbalance in Technology Through Education
Since its establishment in 2011, TWiST has remained committed to advocating for gender equality in science and technology. The association emphasizes that “advancing equality in STEM is not only TWiST’s responsibility—it requires action from society as a whole.”
The event with Texas Instruments represented another important step in TWiST’s continuing efforts to promote STEM education and advance gender equality at the local level. Women in technology shared their professional experiences and personal journeys with the students, encouraging them to explore different possibilities with confidence.
A post-event survey also collected students’ feedback and suggestions to help improve future STEM education initiatives.
Expanding Community Participation and Building Sustainable STEM Education
Another highlight of the event was its successful integration of resources from businesses, nonprofit organizations, and local schools, demonstrating the value of cross-sector collaboration. Alongside Texas Instruments and TWiST, teachers and students from three girls’ schools participated enthusiastically, reflecting a shared commitment to the well-being of businesses, schools, and communities.
TWiST emphasized: “We hope not only to ignite girls’ enthusiasm for technology but also to work with schools, businesses, and communities to build a sustainable cycle of STEM education.”
Behind the Workshop: TWiST’s Long-Term Commitment
The event was supported by TWiST’s extensive experience in STEM education and its strong network of partners. From workshops for female high school students to STEM activities incorporating corporate resources, these initiatives ensure that more girls have opportunities to discover technology.
The Texas Instruments Technology Workshop was not only an introduction to semiconductor technology but also a practical way to help girls recognize that technology can be a language of their own.
From Early Exposure to Future STEM Careers
The event concluded with a group photo, but for the participating students, it may have marked the beginning of a lifelong journey with technology.
Through concrete action, TWiST and Texas Instruments responded to the technology industry’s need for more female talent, encouraging future women in technology to enter STEM fields. They also hope that more companies and partners will join this effort to cultivate women in STEM and build a sustainable, innovative technology ecosystem.
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