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Paulsen Announces Inaugural STEM Competition

Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) today announced the launch of the 2014 Congressional Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Competition for high school students in Minnesota’s Third Congressional District. 

Participants are asked to create an innovative software application, or “app,” for a computer, tablet, or mobile device. Apps must be submitted by April 30, 2014 and be accompanied by a YouTube or Vimeo video explaining how the app works and what the student learned during the competition. Entries may be submitted by an individual or a team. The winning app will be featured on the House of Representatives website, House.gov.

Last year, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.Res. 77, the Academic Competition Resolution to authorize this competition and encourage participation in the STEM fields. Congressman Paulsen, a Mathematics major in college, voted in favor of the resolution. 

“I’m excited to see what these students can create when they put their STEM skills and creativity to the test,” said Paulsen. “As somebody with a math background, I can attest to the growing importance that STEM fields will play in the jobs of tomorrow. This competition is a great way to get students interested in subjects that will help them in the future.”

The competition is open to students in grades nine through twelve residing or attending school in Minnesota’s Third Congressional District. To enter, students need to register at studentappchallenge.house.gov and create an account on challengepost.com.

A panel of local judges with expertise in the tech field will evaluate the apps based on their concept, design, and execution. More information is available at paulsen.house.gov/house-app-contest. Teachers, parents, and students who have questions are encouraged to contact Alex Stanford at 952-405-8510.

Paulsen, a champion of small business and advocate of free enterprise, entrepreneurship, and innovation, serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, the bicameral Joint Economic Committee, and is co-chair of the Congressional Medical Technology Caucus.

For more information on Rep. Paulsen’s work in Congress visit paulsen.house.gov.

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