Optimum, a leading provider of internet, mobile, TV, and phone services, has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education by announcing its continued partnership with FIRST, a renowned robotics community. For the sixth consecutive year, Optimum is supporting over 60 high school teams across its 21-state service area for the 2024 FIRST Robotics Competition season.
The FIRST Robotics Competition provides students with mentor-based programs that allow them to develop essential STEM skills while engaging in hands-on, real-world challenges. Optimum’s sponsorship will provide crucial resources and tools necessary for the participating teams to design, build, and program robots for this season’s challenge, CRESCENDOSM. In CRESCENDO, students are tasked with leveraging their engineering expertise and creativity to tackle a music-themed game.
“We are proud to support 39 FIRST teams in Optimum’s Northeast Area, empowering students to explore STEM fields and innovate for a brighter future,” stated Vic Pascarelli, vice president and general manager of Optimum Northeast. “As a technology-driven company, Optimum is dedicated to nurturing programs that inspire and educate the next generation of innovators. Our partnership with FIRST exemplifies this commitment.”
Optimum’s sponsorship extends beyond team support; the company will also sponsor six regional competitions across its service area, including FIRST Long Island, Mid Atlantic, North Carolina, Texas, NYC, and the Hudson Valley. These competitions provide high school students with opportunities to showcase their robots, refine their skills, and collaborate across various disciplines such as mechanical and electrical engineering, coding, programming, marketing, leadership, and community outreach.
Chris Moore, CEO of FIRST, expressed gratitude for Optimum’s ongoing support, emphasizing the shared goal of preparing students for future STEM careers. “FIRST aims to inspire young people to pursue STEM fields and understand the diverse opportunities within them. Optimum’s partnership is invaluable in furthering our mission to empower students through hands-on learning experiences,” Moore stated.
In addition to its annual sponsorship of FIRST Robotics Competition, Optimum continues to foster STEM skill development through its Optimum Innovator Awards program. Following each competition season, Optimum recognizes outstanding teams with grants for their innovation, community engagement, technology, diversity, and sustainability efforts, further nurturing their growth and impact.
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