In order to help drive interest and increase the understanding of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) careers, U.S. Cellular representatives visited Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield – Henderson Unit last week to discuss the important role STEM plays today in mobile technology. U.S. Cellular engineering associates lead “Ask an Engineer” sessions where they showed youth how STEM applies to real-world situations, specifically in careers centering on engineering.
During the “Ask an Engineer” sessions, children were able to find out more about the vital position U.S. Cellular engineers play in maintaining a strong network in Springfield. Kids were also given a personal rundown of the intricacies of how a text is sent to the variety of cell sites that U.S. Cellular uses to ensure coverage for its customers. The engineers also discussed how they got into the STEM field and the lessons they learned along the way.
“At U.S. Cellular, we are committed to highlighting the importance of STEM education, so having our engineers explain firsthand its importance in our everyday life is a great learning experience for area youth,” said Derek Kyle, senior optimization engineer for U.S. Cellular in Southern Missouri. “Our connection to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield allows us to provide opportunities like ‘Ask an Engineer’ in the hopes that these young minds can continue their lifelong learning through STEM and other educational avenues.”
After the presentation, U.S. Cellular engineers demonstrated how the network operates and how they regularly monitor it, before allowing members to explore a performance drive test vehicle and other equipment used to maintain a reliable network like one in Springfield. Club members learned about the key role engineers play in maintaining a mobile network and how a STEM-based education can help their future careers.
The U.S. Cellular engineers brought a selection of connected accessories to be given away during the sessions, including JBuddies headphones, UE Roll 2 Bluetooth Speakers, a Motorola Moto 360 watch and mini jam boxes. Each item was randomly distributed and served as a special surprise for several of the participating club members.
Earlier this year, U.S. Cellular donated $10,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield to provide STEM educational opportunities to youth. It was part of a $1 million donation to more than 50 clubs across the country. Since 2015, U.S. Cellular has donated $50,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield, and more than $260,000 to Boys and Girls Clubs across Missouri. In addition to the monetary donations, the wireless company engages in ongoing volunteer opportunities like this one.
U.S. Cellular is the fifth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to elevate the customer experience. The Chicago-based carrier is building a stronger network with the latest 5G technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. To learn more about U.S. Cellular, visit one of its retail stores or go to www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, promos and videos, connect with U.S. Cellular on Facebook.com/uscellular, Twitter.com/uscellular and YouTube.com/uscellularcorp.
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For more information, contact:
Kelly Harris
(314) 436-9090
kelly@hausergrouppr.com