The Michigan Council of Women in Technology Hosts 10th Annual Golf Classic

Detroit, MI, June 30, 2016 --(PR.com)-- To support expanded regional programs, specifically focused on attraction and retention of girls and women in technology fields, the Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation’s 2016 10th Annual Golf Classic fundraiser will take place on Monday, July 25 at the Indianwood Golf Club in Lake Orion, Michigan. Registration is now open at www.mcwt.org.

“There is still a gender imbalance in tech jobs, in our region, and the world,” said Cindy Warner, MCWT president. “For a decade, this successful MCWT fundraiser has enabled us to execute programs that encourage girls and women to pursue exciting and challenging technology missions. It’s good for them; and it is even better for our community and the lucky employers who will benefit from their talent.”

The experience attracts more than 35 corporate sponsors, ranging from Fortune 500 to dynamic smaller companies, and 245 golfers. It begins with registration at 8 a.m., followed by an 18-hole round with a shotgun start at 10 a.m., and includes lunch, dinner, open bar, ending with a short inspirational program highlighting MCWT’s work. This year’s brief keynote speech will feature Jennifer Charters, CIO at Ally Bank.

MCWT conducts an online auction, through which a number of Michigan technology leaders and executives put themselves “up for bid” for golf foursomes. This fundraising element complements generous sponsorships and attendee registration revenue. Net proceeds go to the MCWT Foundation for programs supporting and inspiring women and girls in the IT field.

Here are a few examples of MCWT programs that have helped make a significant regional impact over the past decade thanks to fun community events such as MCWT’s Annual Golf Classic:

· Contributing over $900,000 in 108 scholarships and grants to women and girls pursuing technology degrees
· Funding robotics grants for 222 girls
· Engaging 830 fourth through eighth grade girls through weeklong Camp Infinity summer technology camps
· Supporting 460 high school students in MCWT’s after-school GET-IT program
· Teaching web design skills to 816 girls competing in the MCWT Website Design Competition

“As globalization and changing business demands affect the local economy, the advancement of a diverse IT profession through educational programs, research projects, student interest groups, robotics teams, and other forms of charitable outreach is more important than ever,” said MCWT Vice President Carey Pachla. “Net proceeds from MCWT’s Golf Classic ticket sales will propel those initiatives, and much more.”

Partnership opportunities are available; interested companies can contact Kim.Cross@mcwt.org for more information.

The Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation strives to inspire and grow women in technology fields, and has a bold mission --- to make Michigan the No. 1 state for women in technology. The organization supports Michigan’s female IT workforce, students, corporate partners, schools and the overall community with programming, scholarships, networking, learning, mentoring, and technology experiences. Find more information at www.mcwt.org and connect via LinkedIn and Facebook.