TROY – Automation Alley has selected Brett Opel, a senior from Clarkston High School, as its FIRST robotics scholarship recipient for 2014. The scholarship, supported by the Automation Alley Fund, was created to recognize high school seniors involved in FIRST robotics that are interested in pursuing a science, technology, engineering or math course of study at a Michigan college or university.
Opel will receive $1,000 for his academic expenses ? and five pounds of Sour Patch Kids candy. He plans to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan Technological University in the fall.
The selection committee scored applicants according to academic achievement, individual essays and their commitment to STEM and FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). A total of 41 students applied for the scholarship.
?As an organization whose mission is to grow the innovation cluster of Southeast Michigan, Automation Alley recognizes the importance of STEM education in inspiring and equipping a highly skilled technology workforce for generations to come,? said Automation Alley Executive Director Ken Rogers. ?We were very impressed by all of our scholarship applicants, but Brett?s essay responses and dedication to STEM stood out. I?d like to congratulate him and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.?
Opel has dedicated an extensive amount of time to FIRST robotics during his high school career. He began as a sophomore on Team Rush (Team 27) of Clarkston, where he mentored elementary school students in Lego robotics design and programming. As a senior, Opel became captain of The Juggernauts (Team 1) of Pontiac, winners of a district Engineering Inspiration Award.
At Clarkston High School, Opel is a member of the National Honor Society and has a 4.122 cumulative GPA. He is enrolled in advanced placement classes and in CSM Tech, a program at Clarkston High School that requires students to be responsible learners with a great work ethic while focusing on STEM-related honors subjects. In addition to his academic achievements, Opel is involved in a number of extracurricular activities, including theater, music and community outreach.
