InteliSpark client, Mechanismic, Inc., wins a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation to develop SnappyXO Design, a new product for design-driven robotics education for K-12 schools, freshman college programs, and STEM summer camps.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in computer and information technology fields are projected to grow 13% from 2020 to 2030. With a high median annual wage for tech jobs and a job market that currently has 2.5 million vacant STEM jobs, the impetus to educate and prepare the next generation in STEM has never been greater.
Mechanismic, Inc, a tech startup based in New York, recognizes this knowledge and skills gap and is designing and manufacturing innovative educational robotic products for K-12 schools, colleges, and other educational learning centers. Mechanismic, in partnership with Stony Brook Univiersity, will further develop their SnappyXO Design, “the world’s first design-driven robotics education platform consisting of a 1) patented hardware, 2) apps for designing robot motions and controlling them, 3) curriculum, tutorials, and professional development material, and 4) educational services in the field of mechanical engineering, electronics, and computer programming in the context of engineering design.”
This project also seeks to narrow the gap of underrepresented populations, particularly women and ethnic minorities, in having access to quality STEM education. Mechanismic aims to ensure their educational platform is affordable, equitable, and inclusive for students at all grade levels.
As Mechanismic has advanced successfully to phase II in this STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) program, this project shows great potential in equipping the next generation with the necessary knowledge and skills to enter a STEM-driven job market.