Oceanic Cable Donation To Support High School Robotics

Oceanic Time Warner Cable is putting its money where its technological mouth is with a $135,000 sponsorship for the Friends of Hawaii Robotics (FoHR).

The cash and in-kind agreement will support 2012 Robotics events that include the recent FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) in Hawaii Regional Competition and Botball Hawaii Tournament, and the upcoming FIRST LEGO League State Championships.

Oceanic president Bob Barlow said the sponsorship is a natural fit between education and technology.

“As a company driven by advancements in technology and engineering, we’re proud to provide our support to an organization that encourages students to explore the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Friends of Hawaii Robotics and the Robotics Organizing Committee have done a great job at taking intimidating subjects and making them relatable and fun for students.”

FIRST involves high schools and middle schools from around the state. Hanalani Middle School was the overall champion at the Botball Hawaii Regional Tournament. Wahiawa Middle School came in second.

The funding allowed FoHR to send seven Hawaii teams – including Waialua High and Intermediate – to the FIRST Robotics World Championship in Saint Louis, Mo. At the event, Kalani High School was awarded the Making FIRST Accessible Award for their community out-reach and for introducing robotics to people throughout the community.

FoHR president Lenny Klompus said the support is critical to maintaining the program at six schools throughout the state.