Oct. 5, 2006

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Cargill Helps Support Kansas Science Innovation Through “BEST” Program

Wichita, Kan. – To motivate high school students toward careers in engineering, science and technology, through science competition, Cargill has donated $5,000 to the Kansas BEST (Boosting Engineering, Science and Technology) program. The BEST competition motivates students by challenging them to build a remote-controlled robot that accomplishes a defined task within a competitive setting.

Cargill’s funds will be used to provide BEST teams with materials to build a robot which includes digital signal processing electronic equipment, which is one of the key technologies fueling innovative, high-growth applications.

“From Cargill’s generous support, we are able to enhance the BEST program to teach students how to measure their success against other teams, and learn from that measurement,” said Tom Hayes, president, Cargill Meat Solutions. “With Cargill’s help, we are able to encourage careers in science and engineering,” said Hayes.

“We are excited that this donation will help students use various skills and knowledge to develop, design and test a robot,” said Dick Tumlinson, publicity, KS Best Steering Committee. “The future success of companies such as Cargill, as well as our community, depends on the ability of young people to learn about such important subjects as science,” said Tumlinson.

This grant was made on behalf of Cargill’s businesses in Wichita  Cargill Dressings, Sauces and Oils; Cargill Grain and Oilseed Supply Chain; Cargill Meat Solutions and Horizon Milling through the employee-led council called Wichita Cargill Cares.