Assemblyman Robert Smullen participated in the 16th Annual Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Challenge Competition Awards Ceremony on April 25, 2025. The event took place at the Innovare Advancement Center in Rome, New York, and was hosted by the Griffiss Institute.
Smullen emphasized the significance of this competition for high school students across New York. He noted that it challenges them to apply their math and science knowledge to practical problems. The AFRL engineers and scientists play a supportive role by mentoring these students.
“This competition is a great opportunity for students interested in STEM-related fields to utilize the knowledge and skills they have acquired in school and put them to the test,” said Smullen. “It is inspiring to see New York students take initiative and challenge themselves to help prepare for future careers in science and mathematics. As technology and innovation continue to grow and expand in today’s world, it is truly remarkable to see so many students in our state contribute their unique ideas. Congratulations to all of the students and teams who received awards in this competition and best of luck to them in all of their future endeavors.”
The event highlighted student achievements in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), encouraging young minds to explore future careers in these fields.
