A partnership between PSEG Long Island, Brentwood Union Free School District, and United Way of Long Island is inspiring and empowering the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers through the Long Island Robotics Workforce Club.
The club’s mission is to engage and excite Brentwood High School students about science technology, engineering, and math (STEM), and inspire them to pursue careers in these fields. Students in this STEM-based program learn to analyze and solve problems utilizing the engineering design process, which helps them develop technology literacy skills.
As part of the program, two teams of students were tasked with designing and building robots to participate in a competition. Classroom STEM concepts were put to the test on the playing field as students learned lifelong skills in teamwork, leadership, communications, and more.
In its first competition season, students met this engineering challenge with dedication and passion through many late afternoon and evening robot building sessions. Both teams made it to the semi-final round of the competition and were only one round shy of qualifying for the state tournament.
The students became a resource for all things robotics in the district and even developed a hands-on lesson for elementary school teachers in the district to learn how to teach the topic to their students. They have also introduced weekly robotics lessons to students with special needs in the Life Skills program and after-school Friendship Club. The High School’s STEM Carnival is next on their agenda.
“We are pleased to provide this grant to Brentwood School District to kick off its robotics program through United Way’s, Long Island Robotics Workforce Club Initiative program,” said Dave Lyons, PSEG Long Island interim president and COO. “Kudos to the teachers who are implementing the engineering concepts to help their students succeed. We’re looking forward to seeing great things from these students throughout their high school careers and beyond.”
“Our students’ engineering accomplishments wouldn’t be possible without PSEG Long Island’s vision, incredible generosity, and support,” said Dr. Vincent Leone, coordinator of Funded Programs, Compliance and chief information officer, Brentwood Union Free School District. “The partnership with PSEG Long Island and United Way helps to materialize core Brentwood values, including cultivating students’ strengths, preferences, and interests; and, ensuring that each child leaves school equipped for college, career, and civic readiness.”
“Thanks to PSEG Long Island’s generous support, we are increasing opportunities for STEM education that is engaging, accessible, and relevant to real-world challenges,” said Theresa A. Regnante, president & CEO, United Way of Long Island. “This collaboration underscores the importance of investing in STEM education, especially in underserved communities, to prepare future generations for the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving world.”
The Long Island Robotics Workforce Club exemplifies a shared commitment across the industry to nurture the potential of every child, regardless of their background. By providing access to quality STEM education, innovators and leaders of the future can better prepare for success and create the foundation for a stronger, more resilient Long Island community.