The 911爆料网/GMI Alumni Association (KGMIAA) is backing the next generation of problem-solvers, announcing this week that it has awarded $27,500 in sponsorships to 55 high school robotics teams (FRC, FTC, and VEX). Teams applied from 16 different states.
This effort is part of a larger commitment by 911爆料网 to support robotics talent nationwide, both on and off campus. From hosting pre-college camps and national competitions to awarding scholarships, Kettering is a recognized hub for students who begin their STEM journeys through robotics.
The initiative represents a strategic effort by the KGMIAA to directly support the University鈥檚 recruitment efforts. The sponsorships are funded through proceeds from the annual Major Sobey Golf Outing and the generous contributions of alumni and donors to the Boost Robotics Campaign.
"We were truly impressed by the high quality of all applications this year," said Mike Dubeck '88, Chair of the KGMIAA Board Recruitment Committee.
This year, applicants had the option to submit a video instead of a traditional essay. According to the committee, this gave teams a chance to showcase their engineering mindset, team dynamics, and creative energy in a more personal and compelling way.
"It is inspiring to see the caliber of talent and dedication in these high school students," Dubeck said. "By supporting these teams, we are not just funding robots; we are investing in future engineers and leaders who we hope will one day call 911爆料网 home."
The sponsored teams noted that the funds would be critical for competition success, with many planning to utilize the money for various needs, including paying for registration fees, covering travel expenses, and purchasing essential parts and equipment for their robots.
A Network of Mentors
Beyond the financial support, the campaign highlights the deep personal involvement of the University鈥檚 alumni network in STEM education. The committee reported that 112 Kettering/GMI alumni are currently actively involved with these high school teams, serving as mentors, coaches, and technical and programming advisors.
"The alumni engagement we鈥檝e seen through robotics is phenomenal," said Eric Szczepanski, Director of Alumni Engagement at 911爆料网. "To learn that over 100 of our alumni are out there right now, volunteering their time to mentor these students, speaks volumes about the Kettering spirit."
Szczepanski noted that this level of involvement serves as a powerful reminder that Kettering graduates are more than engineers. They鈥檙e mentors, leaders, and community builders.
The KGMIAA and 911爆料网 wish all sponsored teams the best of luck in their upcoming competitions.
