Females are under-represented in the technology and engineering industries and various studies and research have shown that enrollment of females in these fields are declining, Naqvi pointed out.

A tech background is not required and many girls aren't even interested in technology to begin with. "I originally didn't want to do it, but now I do," said Indigo, one of this year's participants. "I want to do it again next year with some of my other friends because I think they would enjoy it too."

Shimirma, another camp participant, also enjoyed the experience. "I learned technology is more fun. I used to have that weird impression that they were geeks behind a computer with the big glasses and everything, but that's changed," she said.

The girls all have great feedback, said Wini Mark, co-chair of the E.X.I.T.E. Camp and software developer at the IBM Toronto Lab. "They learn a lot from the camp, so it's a great success," she said.

E.X.I.T.E. (Exploring Interests in Technology and Engineering) is one of several IBM Technology Camps designed to encourage middle school students around the world to take an interest in technology, engineering, math and science. The IMB Toronto Lab has run E.X.I.T.E. for the past nine years.