Rep. Adam Schiff has announced the launch the first annual congressional science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) academic competition, the House Student App Challenge, for the 28th Congressional District.  The theme for the first year of the competition is Computer Science, challenging students to develop an application (“app”).

Established by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2013, this competition is part of a nationwide event that invites high school students from all congressional districts to compete by creating and exhibiting their software application, or “app,” for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice. It is designed to promote innovation and engagement in the STEM education fields. Throughout the competition period, participating students will be provided opportunities to engage with various STEM educational partners, tech entrepreneurs, and tech experts located in the District to mentor and assist them with their app development.

“This challenge is an extraordinary opportunity for students to put their technical skills to the test and try something different,” said Schiff. “In the next decade, the U.S. economy is expected to add over 8 million new STEM jobs, but face a shortage of graduates trained in those fields. This contest will help address that challenge by encouraging students to create their own app and pursue an education and career in STEM fields.  Hopefully, we find some wonderful entrepreneurs and inventors in our community!”

The House Student STEM Challenge is open to all high school students who live in or attend high school in the 28th Congressional District. Students entering the competition must provide a YouTube or VIMEO video demo explaining their app and what they learned through the competition process during the competition submission period between February 1, 2014 and April 30, 2014.

More details on submitting a contest entry, the rules of the competition, and helpful programming resources can be found here on Rep. Schiff’s website or at http://studentappchallenge.house.gov/.