Girls’ Day at the ILK – Hands-on Engineering

What is lightweight engineering? What role do polymers play in it, and why are women still underrepresented in engineering professions? These were the central questions explored during Girls’ Day at the Institute of Lightweight Engineering and Polymer Technology (ILK) at TU Dresden. The event offered 13 young girls between the ages of 12 and 17 a hands-on introduction to the world of engineering, advanced materials, and the research conducted at the institute.

© ILK/Trute

Instead of getting lost in dry theory, the girls dove into the colorful, hands-on world of engineering during a three-hour workshop. At several interactive stations, they discovered what defines polymers, why they play a key role in lightweight engineering, and how these materials can not only be used efficiently but also recycled sustainably. The students learned which polymers are relevant in everyday life, how to sort and identify them, and which scientific methods are used at the ILK to analyze and further develop these materials.

With full physical engagement, the girls produced their own polymer component using recycled materials. With guidance from researchers Lisa Dahrmann, Anja Winkler, Anja Schölzel, and Daniel Köhler, they were able to manufacture their own custom polymer part using a mini injection molding machine—experiencing firsthand what real engineering work is all about.

Girls’ Day was supported by DFG-funded projects SFB/TRR 285, SFB/TRR 402, and the juniorIng. Sachsen e.V., and once again highlighted the importance of inspiring girls and young women to pursue science and technology.

Further links

• TRR 285
  DFG Gepris:
  https://gepris.dfg.de/gepris/TRR285
• TRR 402: DFG Gepris
  https://gepris.dfg.de/gepris/TRR402