Columbia-based USRA’s robotics and space programming just got a boost

Columbia-based Universities Space Research Association (USRA) announced a donation that will power workforce development programs at its STEMaction Center.

The $25,000 that was presented this month by executives of JastinTech and Luxrobo will ensure USRA’s ability to hold robotics competitions, 3D-printing workshops and computer-building classes. One upcoming workshop will teach coding using MODI, a Luxrobo-developed set of robotics and automation elements that are designed for education.

Plus, there will be opportunities to launch small-scale experiments into space, according to the organization.

STEMaction joined with USRA in 2017 to activate robotics fields at USRA’s headquarters to provide inspiration in tech careers.

The programming offered there underscores how USRA looks at the future: Along with convening pros to advance space research, it’s also educating students in an area with a high concentration of cybersecurity, health and other tech jobs.

“As a company that relies on a highly-skilled STEM workforce, we want to help ensure all employers in Howard County and across the region have the talent pool to draw from,” said Soo Park, JastinTech VP of federal sales, in a statement. “JastinTech is committed to inspiring students to pursue STEM careers and is proud to partner with USRA in this effort.”

For its part, South Korea-based Luxrobo has been showing signs of getting involved in the Howard County community. It was also one of the startups that’s taking space at Howard County Innovation Center as part of a soft landing program with Korean companies.