Aberdeen chapter supports Science and Math students.

* The Aberdeen Proving Ground chapter of the National Defense Industrial Association announced the winners of its first annual Science and Math Academy scholarship program at a general membership meeting held at the Aberdeen Clarion Hotel.

The students from SMA, the local science and math magnet program at Aberdeen High School, were recognized for their winning essays on the topic, "Why is technology important to our country?" The $1,000 winning essay by Ryan Shenk, a senior at SMA with an interest in computer science and mathematics, discussed how technology has supported national defense and helped our country become, and remain, a world power. Three runners up, Emma Landbeck, Margaret Novak, and Keri Lynn Miller, each received $250 for their essays on technology.

"The SMA is the perfect fit with the mission of the NDIA and the scholarship program is one example of how the APG chapter is supporting the NDIA national effort to promote STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) initiatives," said Jack Roth, APG chapter president.

NDIA has encouraged its members to become personally engaged as advocates of STEM as the U.S. Defense, Aerospace, and Homeland Security industries face serious challenges in filling critical technical jobs across the country.

"The SMA is preparing students to be leaders in the areas of math, science, engineering, and technology," said Donna Clem, Coordinator of SMA at Aberdeen High School. "We thank the NDIA for their generosity and recognition as we help these students attain their dreams of success."

The APG chapter also treated the students to a dinner and presentation by guest speaker, Mario Acuna, from NASA's, Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md.

The APG chapter of the NDIA supports the mission of the national association by facilitating mutual understanding and working relationships between government and industry and providing leadership in technology and education related to national defense.