GE gives $25,000 to VWHS Robotics Club

VW independent/submitted information

On Monday, General Electric Company (GE) announced a donation of $25,000 to the Van Wert High School Robotics Club, giving students in the area the opportunity to participate in robotics and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) activities.

“As math and science jobs become increasingly important to our economic future, GE is committed to educating and inspiring students of all ages in STEM related activities,” said James Fowler, chief information officer for GE and one of three Van Wert High School alumni currently working in information technology at GE. “The Van Wert Robotics Club has created a unique and powerful program for local students which is opening the eyes of youth in the area to STEM-related courses and ultimately careers.”

The Van Wert Robotics Club, established just five years ago, is recognized for its impact through local competitions, including bringing home the top award in the Northeast Regional Competition in Cleveland. The Inspire Award is given to a team that is able to communicate their experiences, enthusiasm, and knowledge to other teams, sponsors, and the community.

“Our club and students are grateful for the donation from GE as we continue to grow the program, allowing more students the opportunity to participate in this unique academic club,” said Bob Spath, one of two coaches of the Van Wert Robotics Club.

“As we continue to compete across the region and state, we remain focused on encouraging the next generation of team members and expanding the STEM story to students of all ages,” added Zane McElroy, the other coach for the club.

The donation to Van Wert is part of a larger GE initiative to partner with organizations dedicated to educating youths about the opportunities that exist now and in the future across STEM-related fields.

“As GE is transforming into a Digital Industrial, we want to ignite the minds of our future,” continued Fowler. “It is my hope that the talent coming out of the Van Wert Robotics Club and similar programs across the country bring their passion for science into the workforce as they begin their careers.”

About GE

GE (NYSE: GE) is the world’s digital industrial company, transforming industry with software-defined machines and solutions that are connected, responsive, and predictive. GE is organized around a global exchange of knowledge, the “GE Store,” through which each business shares and accesses the same technology, markets, structure, and intellect. Each invention further fuels innovation and application across our industrial sectors. With people, services, technology and scale, GE delivers better outcomes for customers by speaking the language of industry. www.ge.com.