Motorola funds teen technical apprenticeship program

Motorola Inc. recently announced its continuing support of math and science initiatives with a grant from the Motorola Foundation to After School Matters. After School Matters is a non-profit organization that provides Chicago teens enriching out-of-school activities and apprenticeships by partnering with the City of Chicago, Chicago Public Schools, the Chicago Public Library, Chicago Park District, and other Community-Based Organizations throughout the city.

“Science is an important part of preparing Chicago’s teens for the future,” said Maggie Daley, Chair of After School Matters. “With Motorola’s support, we are expanding our programming in exciting new directions and fostering the scientists, engineers and innovators of tomorrow.”

Motorola’s grant will be used to establish several Robotics Clubs in afterschool and summer programs for underserved inner-city students. Clubs will range from basic levels providing hands-on robotics training to upper level clubs offering robotics competitions and possible internships at local technology companies, including Motorola.

“Our involvement with After School Matters is a great way for Motorola to revitalize the communities in which we do business,” said Eileen Sweeney, director of the Motorola Foundation. “These opportunities will provide Chicago teens a chance to form relationships with adults and peers in their neighborhoods while motivating them to pursue careers in math and science.”

After School Matters executive director David Sinski explains, “Every young Chicagoan has the potential to become a pioneer in robotics or engineering or even the CEO of their own technology company. By partnering with Motorola, we are helping teens realize those aspirations and gain marketable job skills that have value in Chicago’s growing science and technology industries.”

Motorola also provides support to other technology programs, such as the FIRST Robotics and FIRST Lego Leagues, two organizations which stress teamwork among young people while celebrating math and science.