September 2025

Highlighted by immersive experiments and inspiration to spare, the 2025 Femme in STEM 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 science, technology, engineering and mathematics 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, Femme in STEM is eye-opening and can create excitement for these 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 exhibitors.”

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.

Femme in STEM aims to spark an interest in the world and how to study and learn more about it The Aquarium team hopes more people and minds pursue STEM fields to help solve complex issues in the environment. 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.