The South County Economic Development Council has received a $35,000 grant from Qualcomm to help create “Thinkabit Lab” engineering experiences at seven Sweetwater Union middle schools.
Qualcomm’s Thinkabit Lab concept provides students with a hands-on engineering experience, helping them discover their unique talents and explore different types of engineering careers.
“Children are the future and so is technology,” said Sally Preston, chair of the council. “We’re so grateful to have local powerhouses like Qualcomm to engage the kids and provide them with hands-on engineering experience.”
Qualcomm’s seed funding will support the purchasing of supplies, materials, and equipment to replicate the experience the students get when they visit the main Thinkabit Lab in Sorrento Valley. The schools receiving funds are:
- Chula Vista Middle School
- Eastlake Middle School
- Hilltop Middle School
- Montgomery Middle School
- Mar Vista Middle School
- Rancho Del Rey Middle School
- Southwest Middle School
“We are very grateful to Qualcomm and SCEDC for their support of such an important program for our students,” said Dr. Karen Janney, superintendent of Sweetwater Union. “By being a part of this unique opportunity, we are engaging students in a meaningful educational experience that prepares them for to be successful in both college and career.”