The United States is experiencing a shortage of students interested in STEM careers (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.) By 2020, it is projected that in the US we will face a 300,000+ deficit in talent to support STEM positions. Women in particular are extremely underrepresented in these career paths: In 1985, 37% of computer science degrees were awarded to women; in 2012 only 18% were. In 1991 women held 37% of all computing jobs; today they hold only 26%. By increasing the number of women choosing STEM careers, we invest in our nation’s future of gender equity, and position the United States to remain competitive in these vital industries. Started in 1999, IGNITE (Inspiring Girls Now In Technology Evolution) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that introduces school girls from grades 6-12 to technology careers via panel discussions, job shadowing, mentoring and field trips throughout the school year to visit the work places of professional women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) careers. IGNITE has educated and empowered over 30,000 young women in middle school and high school grades to pursue education and careers in STEM. In the Seattle School District alone, female participation in technology classes soared from 10% to 50% since the start of the IGNITE program. IGNITE is a program that works for any school: in addition to chapters formed across the United States, IGNITE has international chapters in Nigeria and Uganda.