NiSource Charitable Foundation Hosts Annual 'Introduce a Girl to STEAM' Event

The program aims to expand access to hands-on learning and inspire young people to pursue STEAM careers.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The NiSource Charitable Foundation, in partnership with NiSource operating companies Columbia Gas and NIPSCO, hosted its second annual 'Introduce a Girl to STEAM Signature Event,' inviting more than 300 school-aged girls to explore careers pathways in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM). The events, held simultaneously in five states, featured interactive demonstrations, team challenges designed by engineers, and inspiring talks from women leaders in STEAM fields.

Why it matters

The program aims to nurture future innovators and support the communities where NiSource employees and customers live and work by encouraging curiosity and exposing girls to STEAM career possibilities.

The details

The girls engaged in interactive demonstrations, took part in team challenges designed by engineers and heard from inspiring women leaders in STEAM fields at the events held simultaneously in five states across Columbia Gas and NIPSCO locations. NiSource volunteers, including the company's women's employee resource group DAWN (Developing and Advancing Women at NiSource), organized and supported the events.

  • The events were held on February 16, 2026.

The players

NiSource Charitable Foundation

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the charitable arm for NiSource Inc. and its companies operating under the NIPSCO and Columbia Gas brands.

Melody Birmingham

Foundation board trustee and executive vice president and group utilities president at NiSource.

Reggie Fields

Executive director of the NiSource Charitable Foundation.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“At NiSource, we are passionate about engaging our communities and helping shape a brighter future through the power of service and outreach. When we create spaces where curiosity is encouraged, and girls can see themselves reflected in STEAM careers, we're not just teaching skills, we're opening doors.”

— Melody Birmingham, Foundation board trustee and executive vice president and group utilities president at NiSource

“Our goal is to inspire girls to dream of someday making a difference in the world, using science, technology and art to solve real-world challenges. You never know what may pique someone's wonder and imagination. We're proud to support programs that nurture future innovators while investing in the communities we serve.”

— Reggie Fields, Executive director of the NiSource Charitable Foundation

What’s next

The NiSource Charitable Foundation plans to continue hosting the 'Introduce a Girl to STEAM' event annually to support its mission of creating strong and sustainable communities.

The takeaway

The NiSource Charitable Foundation's 'Introduce a Girl to STEAM' event demonstrates a commitment to nurturing future innovators and supporting STEAM education, particularly for young girls, in the communities where NiSource operates.