Twenty-six high school robotics teams from Connecticut Light & Power and Yankee Gas’ service territories got $18,000 in grants to help fund their efforts in the upcoming regional competition.
CL&P and Yankee parent Northeast Utilities is title sponsor of the 2011 FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition regional that will draw more than 1,500 high school students on March 31 to April 2 at Hartford’s Connecticut Convention Center. Â
Southington High’s CyberKnights got $3,000, the largest grant awarded. Five teams got $1,000 and the rest received $500 grants.
“We had twice as many applications from teams this year, compared to 2010, and they were from across the state,” said CL&P President Jeff Butler. “It is not only great to see so many students showing an interest in the event, but what I find even more exciting is their interest in what is often referred to as “STEM” – science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Â These are skills that are vital to this country’s future.”
Applications were judged on team diversity, what types of fundraising the teams were involved with, how these teams have helped mentor other FIRST Robotics teams, and commitment and involvement in community service.
