Ascension Parish’s high school robotics team, Robot Ascension, just received a $5,000 gift from BASF to help the team prepare for the national For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics Competition next year.
BASF is an affiliate of BASF SE in Germany, the largest chemical company in the world. The local plant in Ascension Parish helps several local Robotics clubs throughout the year through its commitment to promote and improve science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education in schools.
“Robotics is an exciting field that challenges students to combine academics and creativity in team projects that have a direct link to real-world industry applications,” said Tom Yura, Senior Vice President and Manager of the BASF site in Geismar, Louisiana. “This is a great example of how industry can support STEM education and inspire the next generation of scientists, researchers, inventors and innovators.”
This is the second year BASF has made a donation to the robotics team. In addition to the donation, employees from BASF’s Geismar, Louisiana site serve as mentors to the high school students who participate in preparation for the FIRST Robotics Competition.