Metro East Sun

Backed and publicized by Rep. John Shimkus (R-IL), the new “Congressional App Challenge” invites enterprising high school students to enter a statewide coding competition — regardless of experience level — from now through Oct. 26.

 

“I’m happy to announce that the Congressional App Challenge is underway,” Shimkus said. “This competition challenges high school students to design and code their own software applications.”

 

The congressman outlined the contest, which encourages students to design applications to be used on mobile devices, tablets or other computing platforms, highlighting that winning entries will be showcased both in the U.S. Capitol building and on the House of Representatives’ “Congressional App Challenge” website.

 

Shimkus specified that students can enter the competition either individually or in teams of four; additionally, anyone with questions about the competition — including teachers, parents and students — can contact his office in Harrisburg by calling 618-252-8271.

 

“With demand expected to increase for workers with STEM and coding skills, I’m excited to offer this opportunity to high school students who may be interested in pursuing one of those good paying jobs in the future,” Shimkus said. “To meet the demands of a 21st-century economy, competitions like the Congressional App Challenge help to inspire students to develop these valuable skills.”

 

All participants must register; projects must be submitted electronically through the congressman’s website at https://shimkus.house.gov/  by Oct. 26. Winners will be selected by panels of judges drawn from the local community.

 

“I can’t wait to see the interesting and innovative projects that you all come up with,” Shimkus said.

 

For more information about the Congressional App Challenge, visit congressionalappchallenge.us/.