In recent years, Rexnord has significantly increased its support of STEM to help address the far-reaching STEM talent pipeline shortage – a critical skill set for the company. Rexnord assisted six STEM high school FIRST robotics teams through financial support; providing STEM-related college scholarships; and was a major sponsor of the regional FIRST robotics competition.
In addition to the financial support, Rexnord employees have been lending their talents and experiences to mentorship at area high schools and extracurricular organizations.
Dave Woods, Senior Engineer at the Rexnord Innovation Center, and “product of FIRST” has spent 16 years with FIRST Robotics — the largest global extracurricular STEM organization. FIRST — For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology — is an international youth organization that engages children from kindergarten through high school in mentor-based research and robotics programs that help build science, technology and leadership skills. Its mission is to offer accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in STEM while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills.
FIRST team mentoring is supported by other passionate Rexnord associates. Matt Finco, Sandra Mejia, Robin Olson, Mike Ronsman and John Noegel all serve as mentors for FIRST teams. |