Innovation happens in all corners of the globe, yet inventors often lack the tools and resources they need to make their dreams reality. That’s why Qualcomm is committed to nurturing young inventors at home and abroad. Most recently, that commitment manifested at the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) in Beijing, China.
Since 2006, Qualcomm has been a proud supporter of FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) programs, which aim to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders by engaging them in mentor-based programs such as robotics competitions. This year, our expanded Strategic Partnership included three FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) competitions in China, including upcoming regional and final events in Shenzhen and Shanghai.
At the Beijing North China Regional event in February, 46 teams, including five sponsored by Qualcomm, showed off robotic creations that put their technical savvy, teamwork, and problem-solving skills to the test. At the event, Xiang Wang, SVP & President of Qualcomm China, delivered the keynote address, encouraging young inventors to continue pushing the limits of their creations—and their imaginations.
FIRST is just one way we at Qualcomm are seeking to inspire kids to explore science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers and teach them practical life skills. Our Thinkabit Labs program, for instance, challenges middle-schoolers to turn an Arduino board, servo motor, laptop, and pile of arts-and-crafts supplies into a working device. At the same time, QCamp seeks to inspire young girls to get excited about STEM.
Stay tuned for more blogs about Qualcomm’s support for STEM education programs, including coverage of our role in supporting the FIRST Robotics Championship event in St. Louis next month.
