Representatives of Idaho's new STEM Action Center are on a mission to get kids excited about science, technology, engineering and math.
Three of the Gem state's top First Robotics teams were recognized Thursday at the state capitol. It was part of Idaho Youth Robotics Week.
The robotics program is for all ages, k-12, and is a great way for youth to learn about STEM subjects while having fun.
Plans are in the works to keep the momentum going.
"Robotics has greatly helped me be a lot more talkative, a lot more outgoing... a lot more clear," said Steven Schofield, a high school senior at Vision Charter School in Caldwell.
"We have a $100,000 next year to expand the First Robotics teams throughout Idaho, and we really want to target traditionally underrepresented populations such as rural Idaho," says Angela Hemingway, executive director for the Idaho STEM Action Center. "And, hopefully, we can launch some additional new First [Robotics] teams."
First Robotics teams receive their challenge in the Fall.
The Idaho STEM Action Center's long-term goal is to provide Idaho businesses with a tech-savvy workforce, according to Hemingway.
