Congressional Competition for STEM Education

I must admit that I'm skeptical about anything that comes from the mouth of House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA). However, I'm willing to give him the benefit of the doubt as it relates to his recent remarks about the Congressional Academic Competition for STEM Education. Take a moment to hear or read what he had to say earlier this week ... and think on impact that this competition may have on BDPA.

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the House’s efforts to promote entrepreneurship and innovation through a new nationwide Congressional Academic Competition focused on science, technology, engineering and math.

“From Robert Noyce to Sergey Brin, America has long been at the forefront of the digital revolution. Yet, the United States faces an increasing challenge in terms of competitiveness and the opportunities available to future generations.

“This competition will provide a unique opportunity for America’s high school and college students, in each Congressional District, to showcase their capabilities and creativity and build a framework for American success.

“Each year, this competition will bring communities together with their Member of Congress to recognize the importance of innovation and motivate students to pursue their ideas, take risks and put forward innovative solutions.

“By challenging students to explore the importance of computer science in their everyday lives, we hope that this competition will help empower them to use their creativity to code for a more prosperous and innovative community.

“This competition will initially focus on developing applications for mobile, tablet, and computer platforms; reviewed by community leaders and entrepreneurs in these fields. However, given that technology rapidly changes over time, the competition has been designed with the ability to evolve for the future.

“Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Chairman Miller, ranking Member Brady, and their staffs for their hard work in making this program possible. It will be exciting to see the kinds of advancements and breakthroughs students will come up with across the country.

“I look forward to the success of the Congressional Academic Competition for years to come and encourage my colleagues to support this effort to inspire the next generation of American innovators.”

What do you think? Can you see BDPA students participating in this congressional competition in the future?