AWIS is a national organization dedicated to achieving equity and full participation of women in science, mathematics, engineering and technology. Founded in 1971, national AWIS serves as a network, a resource, and a voice to achieve this goal.

The AWIS-San Diego chapter was established in the mid 1980s. It currently has over 300 active members, and is one of the largest chapters in the country. Our diverse membership includes students as well as professors, entry-level interns and CEOs, patent attorneys as well as business entrepreneurs. Over 60% of the membership holds a doctoral degree. Our members participate in the San Diego science community in many ways. These include, but are not limited to, research, teaching, administration, patent law, science writing, and consulting, in venues from academe to government to all kinds of business and industry.

Members have the option to participate in a wide variety of activities throughout the year. Our Events committee hosts six seminars annually. The seminar topics range from personal, career development to innovations in science and technology. Alternating with Events, the Strategy Sessions committee hosts six members-only workshops every year. These workshops tackle issues such as developing mentor/mentee relationships, personal financial planning, contract negotiation, and many more. In addition to those opportunities to learn and network, there are always casual social functions that encourage our members to interact. The Book and Movie club organizes monthly film viewing or book discussions.

AWIS-SD also believes in being active in our community. Each year, the Scholarship committee awards several scholarships to young women who are pursuing a science career. Additionally, members can choose to actively contribute to the development of young women scientists by participating in our outreach events. The Outreach committee coordinates several programs each year, these range from judging science fairs, to one-on-one mentoring.

AWIS-San Diego sponsors two community-wide events. The Women in Science and Technology (WIST), conferences began in 1993 and are held every other year. These day-long conferences draw over 300 attendees. From plenary lectures from prominent women in science to interactive workshops, WIST is a wonderful setting to experience the energy of AWIS-SD. In alternate years, a celebratory Gala is held to honor our scholarship recipients.

With such a diverse membership, and such a variety of monthly activities, our monthly newsletter keeps all members informed about the calendar of events, and features book reviews and member profiles.

The programs sponsored by AWIS-SD are made possible by the dedication of our volunteers. To contribute as a volunteer please contact our committee chairs.

AWIS–San Diego receives a small amount of funding through chapter membership fees. The majority of operating and scholarship funds come from the generosity of the San Diego community. Our Corporate Sponsorship committee is instrumental in securing the generous support of our donors.

AWIS is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

Our mailing address:

AWIS-San Diego
PO Box 178096
San Diego, CA 92177