“At Microsoft, we aim to develop AI systems that will enable people worldwide to more effectively address local and global challenges, and to help drive progress and economic opportunity.” ~ Brad Smith, “The Future Computed.”
Microsoft EPIC Program Overview
The Microsoft EPIC program introduces the students of today to the exciting next level possibilities of tomorrow through technical training, leadership and teamwork experiences, and the real-world application of academic knowledge! The intensive STEM curriculum blends project-based learning with an educational foundation in artificial intelligence and data science.
Designed by university faculty, Microsoft engineers, and certified teachers, the program challenges students to solve real-world problems by applying the engineering design process. Students participate in hands-on exercises, design challenges, content area lectures, and project-based learning experiences, all with one driving goal – to empower people to live happier, safer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives!
Microsoft EPIC is designed to create a pipeline to higher education and next-generation STEM careers. Jennifer Friedman and Carla Waring of the Microsoft Community Engagement Managers team recognized the need for an outreach model that is both scalable and expansive – an iterative framework that leverages community partnerships to reach more students and to create sustainable, long-term engagement opportunities.
Working with the Kino-Eye Center, the team formulated a model that adapts to the needs and resources of the community, in order to increase bandwidth and provide rigorous learning encounters that extend beyond single-engagement events.
“Our goal is to motivate students beyond the limitations of “good” or “excellent” or “outstanding” – to inspire them to become EPIC!” – Dr. Cesare Wright, Program Director of Microsoft EPIC.
Houston Area Launch of Microsoft EPIC
The Microsoft EPIC launch in Houston includes a series of multi-session academic events for 7th-8th grade students.
The program kicked off with an inaugural session at the Baybrook Mall Microsoft Store on Sat. October 5th. Through a competitive application process, 20 students from four area middle schools were selected to participate.
Students received a fast-paced introduction to artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science from Dr. Cesare Wright, followed by an intensive session on engineering design process and customer discovery. Microsoft Community Development Specialist, Amanda Hines, and the retail store team supported a “break the AI” technical exercise that challenged students to test the technical constraints of the Surface tablet’s facial and expression recognition software.
Working under the guidance of college student mentors from the NASA SUITS program, each team was challenged to identify a real-world problem or need, and to formulate an idea for a technical solution that uses AI. The teams then prepared a “Shark Tank” style pitch, and presented their AI concept to a panel of judges.
The winning team, which will advance to the final pitch competition at the Microsoft Technology Center, proposed an innovative AI system that uses advanced machine learning, complex sensors, and behavior recognition algorithms to assess an individual’s driving, establish a normative baseline, and scan for aberrant driving behavior (intoxication, medical conditions, distraction, emotional issues, etc.).
By recognizing what constitutes “good driving” for each individual, the EVA AI system would identify and potentially mitigate high-risk driving behaviors in advance of a catastrophic accident.
Other ideas included AI solutions to address issues including deforestation, active shooter scenarios, and physical and emotional support for the visually impaired.
Baybrook Mall Microsoft Store would like to extend a special thank you to each and every student that participated in the event. We had teams from Pearland Junior High West, Galloway Christian Academy, Victory Lakes Intermediate, and Tekoa Academy of Accelerated STEM Studies. In addition to being selected through a highly competitive application process, these students did amazing work and should all be very proud of what they accomplished under difficult time constraints!
Winning teams from the Baybrook, Galleria, and Woodlands Microsoft Stores will face off in a final round of presentations at the Microsoft Technology Center on Nov. 16th, and the winning team will be featured on a special segment of Great Day Houston with Deborah Duncan on Nov. 21st.
Stay tuned!!!
