As the Director of Education and Experience at the Chicago Architecture Center, Angela Esposito's mission is to educate Chicago's youth, and train the CAC staff and volunteers who lead student experiences. In her role she is responsible for training, coaching, and implementation of CAC's mission on engagement and interpretation of the built landscape. Ms. Esposito is passionate about gaining access and exposure for underrepresented students in STEAM fields such as architecture, engineering, and urban planning. For over 10 years, Ms. Esposito worked in the fields of architecture and design as a project superintendent. Ms. Esposito is a reoccurring public speaker for the CAC and has been featured for her work with CAC's all-girls architecture program, Girls Build!, on WTTW/PBS as well as several print publications. Ms. Esposito holds a degree in Interior Architecture and Art History as well as a post- graduate degree in Secondary Education with a focus on civics and government. She is often invited to speak to partners, educators and industry professionals about gender and inclusion in STEAM fields, incorporating architecture into classroom curriculum and Chicago's architectural history.

Statement:

A frequent question I am often asked is, 'why girls?' Girl and women-centered programs are not a boys vs girls scenario, rather a place for girls and women to learn, gain necessary skills and grow in new ways so when they enter mixed gendered careers, they have the confidence to not only participate but excel.