The TE Connectivity Foundation has announced its 2018 grants to three nonprofit organizations that advance the TE Foundation’s mission of connecting and strengthening global communities through access to technology and engineering for all, with a focus on women and underserved populations.
The organizations receiving one-year grants are: FIRST Global, Girl Up and SMASH.
The TE Foundation grant will help extend the competition to additional nations where girls are not typically given the opportunity to partake in equal education or opportunities like this, and also help provide the kits needed for the competition. The grant will also provide funding to create five GIRLHERO Solution Labs and STEM boot camps in domestic and international markets.
Commenting on the grants, Chair of the TE Foundation Board of Trustees and senior vice president and general manager of TE Connectivity’s North American Automotive business, Karen Leggio said, “We believe that helping to build strong communities and increasing access to education and careers in engineering and technology is core to creating a sustainable global work force and meaningful work opportunities for all. The three organizations we selected do just that, and we are excited to work with each of them and see the impact of their programs on women and underserved populations. ‘Every connection counts’ is not just a tagline at TE. It permeates all that we do.”
Executive Director of FIRST Global, Kevin Wensing said, “The FIRST Global Challenge builds connections, relationships and inspires future leaders of the international community through the exciting sport of robotics and STEM, encouraging them to pursue their dreams. We are grateful to the TE Foundation for their strong leadership and support.
Further the grant will enable the organization to expand to new U.S. markets, replicate its approach, and create an alumni network to help ensure that ongoing support is available for those who have gone through the program, thereby increasing the likelihood that these students will engage in STEM careers.
