Optimum, a leader in internet, mobile, TV, and phone services, has announced the winners of its fifth annual Optimum Innovator Awards. This initiative, which recognizes and supports FIRST Robotics Competition teams, highlights student achievements in innovation, community engagement, diversity, sustainability, and technology. In 2024, the awards honored five winners, five runners-up, and 15 honorable mentions, with grants provided to fuel their continued creativity and growth.
This year’s Inclusion Award winner, the Wild Reds from Mineola High School, exemplifies the spirit of innovation by organizing STEM immersion sessions at the Henry Viscardi School. The sessions engaged children with physical disabilities, using LEGO bridge-building activities to demonstrate the FIRST core values of teamwork and creativity.
Runner-up for the Sustainability Award, the Pierson Whalers from Sag Harbor, also made a lasting impact by developing a clam rake-beach buggy to aid beach cleanups. Their eco-conscious project reflects the growing importance of sustainable solutions within the FIRST community.
Empowering Future Innovators
Optimum’s sponsorship extended to over 60 FIRST teams and six regional competitions this year. Teams were given tools and resources to design and program their robots, equipping them with valuable STEM skills. As FIRST students prepare for next season, Optimum continues to inspire and support their journey.
Awards included $2,000 for winners, $1,500 for runners-up, and $500 for honorable mentions. Beyond grants, Optimum will host recognition events featuring local officials and community partners to celebrate these young innovators.
Celebrating Excellence Across Categories
Other award highlights include the Excellence in Technology Award, won by the Warhawks from Edison, NJ, and the Community Impact Award, given to Dark Side Robotics from Parkersburg, WV. The Inspiration Award went to Full Metal Jackets of Rockwall, TX, for their outstanding creativity.
Fifteen teams also received honorable mentions for their ingenuity, including Long Island’s Rebel Robotics (Great Neck, NY) and the Regal Eagles (Bethpage, NY).
Commitment to Community and Innovation
Optimum’s partnership with FIRST is part of its broader mission to support local communities and foster innovation. By sponsoring programs that educate and inspire, Optimum reinforces its commitment to building a future led by creative, resourceful, and socially responsible leaders.