Posted
Mar 27, 2015 02:05 PM
When WA FIRST Robotics needed a technology makeover, they enlisted the help of Microsoft and 501 Commons' Technology Services to become more efficient in collaborating, data tracking and reporting. Their dedication to inspiring kids to pursue STEM careers is why we're featuring them at this year's Techtacular.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) might be a trendy buzzword in education, but WA FIRST Robotics takes it to heart. Their mission is to inspire students to pursue careers in science and technology by offering fun and engaging afterschool programs that mix technology with sports-like competition.
WA FIRST Robotics kids, ages 5 through 18, program robots to do things ranging from maneuvering through obstacles to shooting basketballs through hoops, all using math skills and problem solving abilities.
Recently, Microsoft provided a grant to 501 Commons to give WA FIRST Robotics a top-to- bottom technology makeover. 501 Commons’ staff has converted them to Office 365, is developing a technology plan for the organization, and is working with them to use technology more effectively in collaborating, data tracking and reporting.
“We are thrilled to be working with the team at 501 Commons and are grateful to Microsoft for the grant in making this possible,” says Erin McCallum, executive director of WA FIRST Robotics. “501 Commons has a clear understanding of how non-profits work and how staff can operate effectively to carry forward the organization’s mission.”
WA FIRST Robotics kids, ages 5 through 18, program robots to do things ranging from maneuvering through obstacles to shooting basketballs through hoops, all using math skills and problem solving abilities.
Recently, Microsoft provided a grant to 501 Commons to give WA FIRST Robotics a top-to- bottom technology makeover. 501 Commons’ staff has converted them to Office 365, is developing a technology plan for the organization, and is working with them to use technology more effectively in collaborating, data tracking and reporting.“We are thrilled to be working with the team at 501 Commons and are grateful to Microsoft for the grant in making this possible,” says Erin McCallum, executive director of WA FIRST Robotics. “501 Commons has a clear understanding of how non-profits work and how staff can operate effectively to carry forward the organization’s mission.”
We are truly fired up by WA FIRST Robotics’ cool mission to awaken kids’ love for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. That’s why we are featuring the students and their robots at this year’s Techtacular event on Apr. 29. Join us for the event and meet a robot!