August 17, 2012 | SharkAdmin [image1]A Texas Workforce Commission grant provided the opportunity for NVC to partner with Girl Scouts of Southwest TX and the Young Women's Leadership Academy to offer a free robotics camp. The camp allowed students to participate in hands-on activities in small teams to generate interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education. Students constructed robots that later competed in mini-challenges. The TWC provided $36,590 to the Space TEAMS Summer Robotics Program to be split between three Alamo Colleges (Northwest Vista College, Northeast Lakeview College and St. Philip's College). The funds provided scholarships and a robotics experience for students. The colleges each identified a community group that could benefit from the scholarships. NVC selected Girls Scouts of Southwest Texas and the Young Women's Leadership Academy of SAISD to help close the gender gap in STEM-related careers. [image3]A Girl Scout Research Institute study, released earlier this year, showed that 74 percent of high school girls are interested in STEM, but few girls pursue careers in these areas. According to federal data, men outnumber women in STEM-related careers, which are among the most lucrative careers. “The Summer Robotics program is a great opportunity for young kids to get excited about science, technology, engineering and math,” said Andres Alcantar, TWC Chairman. “The students spent a week working hands-on to build robots, while building camaraderie and teamwork with their peers through hard work and challenges, helping prepare them for future success.”[image2] NVC offers robotics summer camps for elementary, middle and high school students in addition to other summer youth camps. For more details on this or any other youth program or for registration information, visit http://www.alamo.edu/nvc/tier/
