Google’s philanthropic arm announced a $500,000 grant to expand robotics and artificial intelligence education programs in Washington state middle schools. This grant is in partnership with the non-profits Robotics Education & Competition Foundation (RECF) and For InSpiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), with the goal of supporting 1,234 robotics clubs and reaching over 8,900 students over three years. The announcement was made at Finn Hill Middle School in Kirkland, Wash., where students had the opportunity to work on robotics projects and interact with Google employee volunteers.
The event at Finn Hill Middle School included U.S. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene, who highlighted the importance of investing in programs like these to educate future leaders in the fields of robotics and AI. DelBene noted that these programs provide young people with the opportunity to innovate, develop new skills, and pave the way for bright futures. The funding from Google.org is part of a larger $10 million initiative to support FIRST and RECF in communities where Google has a presence, indicating the company’s commitment to promoting STEM education and preparing students for careers in technology.
Google’s grant will help expand access to robotics and AI education programs in Washington state middle schools, providing students with hands-on STEM tools and the opportunity to work on robotics projects. By supporting 1,234 robotics clubs and reaching over 8,900 students, Google’s partnership with RECF and FIRST aims to inspire young people to pursue careers in technology and develop the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. The event at Finn Hill Middle School showcased the impact of these programs on students and highlighted the importance of investing in STEM education.
The funding from Google.org will support the expansion of robotics clubs in Washington state middle schools over the next three years, with the goal of reaching a large number of students and providing them with valuable skills in robotics and AI. By partnering with RECF and FIRST, Google is able to leverage their expertise in STEM education to create meaningful opportunities for students to learn, grow, and innovate. The event at Finn Hill Middle School brought together students, educators, and Google employee volunteers to showcase the impact of these programs and inspire the next generation of technology leaders.
Congresswoman DelBene emphasized the importance of investing in programs that educate young people in robotics and AI, as these fields continue to play a critical role in shaping the future of technology. By supporting initiatives like the one announced by Google, DelBene believes that students will have the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in STEM-related careers. The grant from Google.org is part of a larger commitment to promoting STEM education and preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age, signaling the company’s dedication to investing in the future of technology.
Overall, Google’s $500,000 grant to expand robotics and AI education programs in Washington state middle schools represents a significant investment in the future of STEM education. By partnering with organizations like RECF and FIRST, Google is able to support a large number of students and provide them with valuable opportunities to learn, grow, and innovate. The event at Finn Hill Middle School highlighted the impact of these programs on students and showcased the potential for young people to pursue careers in technology. Through initiatives like this, Google is helping to inspire the next generation of leaders in robotics and AI.
