I am involved with FIRST Robotics at all age levels. It is a great way for kids not only to get involved with STEM but to meet and work with others from all backgrounds. I was at an event recently where members of a team I am familiar with from Appalachia worked closely (and became fast friends) with a team from the Netherlands. FIRST participation is 60% male, 40% female. I am certain when I was in school (a very long time ago), robotics would have been a "boy thing."