HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Nearly one million dollars will go toward two Huntsville entities, secured by Congressman Robert Aderholt.
Aderholt released this statement:
“One of the most important duties of Congress is to fund the federal government and to make sure those tax dollars are being spent in a responsible manner and going to projects that truly make a difference in the community. These two projects, which I directed funds to, are both perfect examples of tax dollars being spent in a responsible manner that will benefits thousands of people. I was glad to be able to request these funds on behalf of these communities rather than a bureaucrat in Washington, who knows nothing about Alabama, deciding how tax dollars are to be spent here in our district. I look forward to seeing these projects get underway.”
Approximately $550,000 will go toward the 'Institute for Digital Enterprise Advancement' or 'IDEA'.
The group partners with local two-year colleges to 'accelerate the adoption of digital engineering in the workplace'.
'IDEA' has already partnered with Calhoun Community College, but the funds will expand the group's reach to rural schools including Snead and Wallace State Community Colleges.
The ‘IDEA’ Executive Director expects to use the funds by this August.
“Using these kinds of new skillsets and expanding the use of trained engineers into the technician field, we’re actually bringing a new skillset of people that maybe they are ready to go to a four-year school. Maybe they have a little math anxiety,” said Chris Crumbly.
Funds were also secured for the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, with $400,000 dollars to help build a new facility for STEM and cyber education classrooms.
The money will fund teacher training, computers, and books as well. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center released this statement below:
“We are grateful for Rep. Aderholt’s efforts to secure this funding for our Space Camp Operations Center and to help us reach underserved children in our state,” said Dr. Kimberly Robinson, CEO and Executive Director of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. “Rep. Aderholt is a long-time supporter of our programs, and he understands that investing in the Rocket Center is an investment in the future of our state and nation.”