Robbins Highlights "Science in Motion," Precision Manufacturing Institute on TV Program

Science education initiative, PMI part of efforts to fight PA "brain drain."

Harrisburg – Two initiatives aimed at producing a skilled, educated workforce in Pennsylvania are the focus of July's "Robbins Report," hosted by Senator Bob Robbins (R-50).

The program takes a look at the Science Technology Partnerships Program, better known as "Science in Motion." The program makes state funding available to higher education institutions to purchase high tech science equipment, such as atomic force microscopes and spectrophometers. This equipment is then transported to and shared with surrounding schools.

In the program, Sen. Robbins speaks with representatives from Westminster College and Juniata College, which participate in Science in Motion program. The Senate released passed Senate Bill 414, sponsored by Robbins, which would enact Science in Motion into law, freeing it from the annual struggle for survival that it now faces.

The Robbins Report also looks at the Meadville-based Precision Manufacturing Institute. PMI trains local individuals -- from beginner or novice, unemployed or under employed -- in the latest technology of the tooling and machining trade.

"The goal of Science in Motion and PMI is to produce educated, highly-skilled workers that will halt the 'brain drain' exodus of young workers from Pennsylvania, meet the needs of current employers, and attract new businesses to our region," said Robbins. "Science in Motion addresses America's urgent need to improve science education, and PMI is one of the leaders in producing workers trained to use the latest tooling and machining equipment. And both have a significant presence in the 50th Senatorial District."

The Robbins Report airs on the following outlets:

Armstrong Cable (Channel 19), July 5 and 19, between 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
GBS Television (Channel 3), July 2 at 4:00 p.m.
PA Cablevision (Channel 10), dates and times vary.
Time Warner (Channel 9), Thursdays at 7:00 p.m.

The Robbins Report will also be posted on Senator Robbins' home page at www.senatorrobbins.com

CONTACT:

Nate Silcox
(717) 787-1322