In describing the company on their official website, Applied Connective proudly touts that they are “an employer of a bunch of brainiacs.” With a team of 60 employees, each an expert in various facets of technology, it’s hard to argue with that!
In addition to its technical talent, the 20-year-old IT company is also well-known for its philanthropic pursuits. Having established an internal Philanthropy Program in 2018 with the mission of “doing more good” and supporting worthy causes whose values align with their own, they say “Philanthropy is more than a program here; it’s a passion and a privilege to give back to the communities who have given us so much.”
Through that lens, it comes as no surprise that Applied Connective has in recent years begun to support an audience that allows them to both give back and to foster technical talent: Local robotics clubs.
Applied Connective offers financial donations, equipment donations, and/or mentoring to a number of youth robotics clubs and lego leagues in the region, saying that this is a great way to encourage “Nebraska’s future techies.”
Robotics clubs are becoming increasingly popular throughout the U.S., with NinJava reporting there to be roughly 73 robotics clubs in Nebraska alone.
“We’re excited to see the emergence and growing popularity of robotics clubs,” says Applied Connective President Ed Knott. “Activities like this inspire youth to experiment, stay curious, follow their interests, and challenge themselves to grow not only their technical skills but also their critical thinking, teamwork, presentation skills and many additional ‘soft skills’ that will serve them throughout life regardless of the career path they ultimately pursue.”
Applied Connective will be following the seasons of the handful of robotics clubs they sponsor, some coming off of very successful seasons last year with sights set on qualifying for the world championship this season.
Much like other sports, robotics clubs come with operational costs they need sponsors to cover. In addition to the technologies they’ll need for team collaboration and programming, their projects may also require custom pieces, and considering travel, apparel, and other associated costs, participation can add up.
However, all parents the company has talked to seem to agree that the benefits far outweigh the costs, reporting that their kids have blossomed with confidence. Applied Connective has been proud to watch these youth grow in their skills and confidence and hopes their support will send the message to all that it’s cool to work hard at something you enjoy. You never know. Someday, these could be the company’s brilliant new employees.