U.S. Navy encourages Kaua‘i’s student scientists and engineers of tomorrow

Pacific Missile Range Facility Barking Sand’s senior enlisted leader Sr. Chief Eddie Ko on Feb. 7 presented four Naval Science Awards to Kaua‘i students during the 30th annual Kaua‘i Regional Science and Engineering Fair.

The Naval Science Award Program is a U.S. Navy and Marine Corps initiative honoring accomplishments of eligible students who create and present quality projects for regional and state science and engineering fairs as well as the International Science and Engineering Fair.

“It is an honor and a privilege to present these young scholars with the Naval Science Award on behalf of the Office of Naval Research,” said Ko in a Wednesday afternoon (Feb. 11) post on Facebook by Pacific Missile Range Facility. “In an ever changing world, our greatest resources are the bright men and women working diligently to find solutions and create new pathways forward.”

The science fair was hosted by Kaua‘i Student Research, a nonprofit that supports students in grades six through 12 who conduct independent science and engineering research on the Garden Isle.

“I encourage you to continue on with your education, continue creating innovative solutions and return to put your talents to good use here at home,” Ko said.

Pacific Missile Range Facility was also proud to support the regional science fair event by providing judges from its personnel team, who brought valuable expertise and thoughtful evaluation to the competition.

Their volunteerism and engagement reflects the U.S. Navy facility’s commitment to fostering emerging talent and strengthening the research and science community on Kaua‘i.

“Congratulations to all of the awardees and finalists of the 30th annual Kaua‘i Regional Science and Engineering Fair,” wrote Pacific Missile Range Facility in its post. “We look forward to seeing how your ideas continue to shape the future of science and technology!”

The Office of Naval Research sponsors science fairs, college internships, graduate fellowships and curricular enrichment programs aimed at supporting a lasting interest in science and engineering for the nation’s students.

Visit the Office of Naval Research website for additional information about the Naval Science Award Program.