GREENVILLE – On March 13, 2026, 130 young women from four Darke County high schools gathered for the fifth annual Impact STEM2D Conference for Women, an event designed to introduce students in grades 9–12 to the wide range of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, manufacturing, and design (STEM2D) careers available in our community.
Hosted by the Darke County Chamber of Commerce and Darke County Economic Development, the conference provided students with hands-on workshops, opportunities to interact with local women working in STEM2D careers, and a career fair featuring local employers who support women in these fields.
Throughout the day, students participated in interactive activities led by local companies, attended a Women in the Workforce panel featuring professionals in STEM2D careers, and connected directly with employers during a career fair designed to highlight opportunities available in Darke County.
“One of the most powerful things we can do for young women is help them see what’s possible,” said Rachel Neal. “The Impact STEM2D Conference gives students the chance to meet professionals, explore career paths, and experience hands-on learning that could shape their future. Darke County is full of incredible opportunities, and introducing students to careers that exist right here in our community helps them begin to imagine building their lives here — learning here, working here, and raising their families here.”
The conference is designed not only to introduce career pathways but also to help students develop professional skills such as verbal communication, networking, and engaging with employers. The event also highlights opportunities for students to pursue job shadows, internships, and other career exploration experiences in their own backyard.
“Impact STEM2D allows students to explore STEM careers in a way that’s interactive, engaging, and connected to real opportunities in Darke County,” said Olivia Schmitmeyer, Career Connections Coordinator with Darke County Economic Development. “Our goal is to spark curiosity today that can lead to a future workforce tomorrow.”
Students expressed enthusiasm throughout the day, particularly during the career fair where they were able to engage directly with business representatives and learn more about STEM2D career pathways.
The event featured keynote speaker Casey Frazee, AVP/HR Officer at GNB Banking Centers. Frazee, a Greenville graduate and Arcanum resident, brings nearly 25 years of human resources experience spanning manufacturing and banking. She shared insights with students about building successful careers and the importance of supportive workplace cultures that empower employees to grow and succeed.
The Impact STEM2D Conference is made possible through the support of numerous community partners and sponsors.
Event Sponsor: BASF
Lunch Sponsor: Brethren Retirement Community
Gold Sponsors: Wayne HealthCare, The Andersons, Cooper Farms, Klöckner Pentaplast, EverHeart Hospice, Edison State Community College, Spirit EMS, and Midmark Corporation.
Career Sponsors: Darke County Job and Family Services, Family Health Services of Darke County, JAFE Decorating, Reid Health, Classic Carriers, Darke Soil and Water Conservation District, GNB Banking Centers, and Darke County Health District.
Organizers also extend their appreciation to the women of the Greenville Business and Professional Women for volunteering their time to help make the event possible.
The conference was planned by a dedicated committee including Leigha Brown, Maria Moore, Carmen Miller, Rajni Acharya, Olivia Schmitmeyer, Kim Manalo, Rachel Neal, and Denise Elsas.
By connecting students with real professionals, real experiences, and real opportunities, the Impact STEM2D Conference continues to strengthen the pipeline of future talent and inspire young women to pursue careers that shape the future of Darke County.
