Unique scholarship program promotes science and math education and effective leadership skills at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center
JAKARTA, Indonesia, April 17, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Honeywell (NYSE: HON) today announced that high school student Ignatius Vincent from East Java was among the 304 students from 39 countries who attended the Honeywell Leadership Challenge Academy (HLCA) this year. The unique leadership program ran over two consecutive week-long programs from February 21 to March 7, 2014 at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC) in Huntsville, Alabama.
HLCA uses interactive technology, science-oriented workshops and team exercises to teach children of Honeywell employees between the ages of 16-18 leadership skills in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Activities are delivered in fun and innovative ways that bring STEM studies to life. The program is designed to build students' leadership skills and develop their capacities through hands-on challenges.
Ignatius Vincent, a high school student from East Java who wants to pursue civil engineering described this program as "the best experience that I've ever had in my life." He said, "I feel grateful, rejuvenated and more confident. I learnt so much about science and technology in just five days. This program has inspired me to explore wider options of careers in science and engineering."
During the program, the students met scientists, engineers and former astronauts who helped reinforce core leadership competencies and shared their first-hand professional experiences. Students engaged in team-building challenges such as designing, building and testing their own rockets; participating in simulated astronaut training, shuttle missions and a moon walk.
"Our goal is to continue to develop a new generation of leaders, engineers, and scientists who can address the challenges of tomorrow," said Tom Buckmaster, President, Honeywell Hometown Solutions, the company's global corporate citizenship initiative. "Honeywell Leadership Challenge Academy is a holistic program that uses a variety of teaching methods to open students' minds to the many possibilities for rewarding careers."
Since its launch in 2010, Honeywell, in partnership with the USSRC, has awarded more than 1156 scholarships to students. Scholarships are granted after a rigorous application and review processes based on academic achievement and community involvement. Financial contributions from Honeywell Hometown Solutions and Honeywell employees help fund the scholarships, including tuition, meals, accommodations and program materials.
"Honeywell's investment in this innovative global youth leadership training reflects their enormous commitment to improving the quality of life in communities across the world. These youth leaders are the problem solvers of the future, at home, at work and in our continuing journey into space," said Dr. Deborah Barnhart, CEO and Executive Director, USSRC.
For more information about HLCA, visit http://leadership.honeywell.com/
