NASA, Lockheed Martin Freecycle Computers for Schools
Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS) of Upper Marlboro, MD has received a full computer systems upgrade, thanks to a partnership with NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) and aviation and aerospace technology giant Lockheed Martin. The district's computers and related equipment, much of it six years old and older, have been replaced by newer and much faster and higher quality equipment formerly in use at GSPC.
As the primary contractor for NASA's Outsourcing Desktop Initiative (ODIN), which is responsible for gradually transferring the risk and responsibility of managing the agency's IT operations to the commercial sector, Lockheed manages computer upgrading at GSPC and can in turn match the equipment being replaced with users in need.
"Lockheed Martin is a longtime supporter of STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) initiatives and is proud that our work on the ODIN program can directly contribute to advancing technology education," said Colleen Leighty, director of Lockheed's enterprise information technology team. "This agreement will ensure Prince George's County students will have a constant supply of computers to support their learning experiences."
Several high schools in the district have already received equipment upgrades as a result of the partnership, and more schools will benefit throughout the 2010-2011 school year as GSFC replaces its older systems.
"We are proud to support PGCPS in their efforts to bring enhanced technology education to their students," said Robert Strain, center director at GSFC. "Through this partnership ... we hope to promote a high-tech learning environment for county students that will encourage the next generation of explorers."
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Scott Aronowitz is a freelance writer based in Las Vegas. He has covered the technology, advertising, and entertainment sectors for seven years. He can be reached here.