I-66 EMP Contributes $6,500 To “Make Tech Pink” in PWC

Donation to Local Nonprofit Pink Space Theory Will Help Elementary-Age Girls Learn Computer Coding

Manassas, Va. August 9, 2024 –I-66 Express Mobility Partners (I-66 EMP) – the builder and operator of the 22.5-mile 66 Express Outside the Beltway in Fairfax and Prince William counties – last month contributed $6,500 to the Make Tech Pink program run by nonprofit partner Pink Space Theory. This contribution supports efforts to empower young women in technology, underscoring I-66 EMP’s commitment to community development and education.

Founded by president and CEO Monica Nichols, Pink Space Theory is a local mobile maker space promoting STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) education to all students, particularly girls. Among the organization’s programs is Make Tech Pink, a 12-session course that teaches coding to fourth and fifth graders at Title I elementary schools in Prince William, bringing an awareness of computer science careers to disadvantaged students in those communities.

Make Tech Pink makes use of an engaging robot ball called “Sphero,” adding to the students’ hands-on experiences in STEAM education.

“Our goal is to create spaces where students can explore and solve real-world problems in science and engineering,” Nichols said. “We’re extremely pleased that I-66 EMP has stepped up with this donation to support technological literacy and a greater interest in high-tech careers among female students in Prince William County.”

Since its formation in 2016, I-66 EMP – a consortium of leading global transportation infrastructure firms Cintra, Meridiam, and APG – has consistently supported public education in science and technology, as part of its corporate mission. Over the years, the roadway operator has provided multiple grants to support STEM education in both Fairfax and Prince William, helped judge a science and engineering fair, and demonstrated the engineering of bridge-building for students at STEAM Fest ‘23.

In April 2024, I-66 EMP funded need-based scholarships for 10 students to attend Fairfax County Public Schools’ Tech Adventure Camp this summer.

“We believe that supporting public education in STEAM subjects is vital to the future of our region’s economy. That’s why we’re pleased to partner with Pink Space Theory to Make Tech Pink,” said Nancy H. Smith, Director of Corporate Affairs for I-66 EMP. “As back-to-school season gets underway here in Northern Virginia, we look forward to the positive impact this partnership will bring to all the students Pink Space Theory serves.”

About Pink Space Theory:
As a mobile maker-space providing hands-on, 21^st-century learning experiences, Pink Space Theory creates space for students to love learning about the subjects of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics). Pink Space Theory operates more than a half-dozen programs designed to inspire, train, and transform under-represented and under-served students to become the next generation of high-tech leaders. For more information and to enroll in Pink Space Theory’s programs, visit www.PinkSpaceTheory.org.

About the 66 Express Outside the Beltway:
Part of VDOT’s Transform 66 Outside the Beltway program, the lanes of the 66 Express are a transformative 22.5-mile multi-modal mega-project featuring advanced dynamic-tolling systems to keep traffic flowing at all times. The lanes provide Northern Virginia commuters, businesses, and mass transit with a reliable option to move people, goods, and services throughout the I-66 corridor, allowing drivers to Sit Less, Live More. Visit www.Ride66Express.com to learn more, and keep up with the 66 Express on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About I-66 Express Mobility Partners:
I-66 Express Mobility Partners (EMP) is a consortium of leading infrastructure companies including Cintra, Meridiam, and APG. In public-private partnership (P3) with VDOT, I-66 EMP is contracted to operate the 66 Express Outside the Beltway through 2066. Connect with I-66 EMP on LinkedIn.