IBM Encourages Kids to Pursue Careers in Math, Science

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Debra Lau Whelan -- School Library Journal, 12/13/2006

IBM sure knows how to recruit early. The microchip maker recently invited middle school students to its headquarters in New York to check out how video games are made. The ulterior motive? To encourage them to pursue careers in math and science.

"The introduction of next-generation systems from the leaders in video gaming offers a unique opportunity to reinforce the importance of math and science education at the earliest possible age," says Michael Nelson, IBM's director of Internet technology and strategy, who led the educational sessions. "Kids love gaming, and math and science make games possible."

Students from the Bronx and Dutchess County attended a presentation about gaming technology and how it's changed education, health care, energy exploration, and other industries. They saw applications such as a 3-D rendering of the human heart and met the avatar Jai, IBM's gaming representative, in the digital world. Kids also got to see the next generation of gaming consoles from Nintendo and Sony, and chatted with IBM employees who developed the chips that power them.

IBM offers Pre-K–12 programs to help build interest in math and science and to encourage kids to stay in school.

"There is so much opportunity for students in the technical fields, and gaming is opening many new and exciting options," says Robin Willner, vice president of IBM global community initiatives. "But in order for students to play in the future of gaming, they need to be prepared academically. We're trying to make that connection for the students in a fun, interactive way."