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Supercomputing Challenge asks lawmakers for recurring $200,000 to rebuild statewide STEM program
Summary
Presenters told LESC that the Supercomputing Challenge—34 years old, with more than 12,000 student alumni and a statewide footprint—seeks $200,000 in recurring FY26 funding to restore teacher institutes, in‑person expos and staffing after COVID‑era cuts.
Leaders of the Supercomputing Challenge asked the Legislative Education Study Committee for $200,000 in recurring state funding beginning in fiscal year 2026 to restore backbone support for the long‑running STEM program.
Panelists said the Challenge runs a year‑long research program for upper middle‑ and high‑school students that combines high‑performance computing, machine learning and data analysis with communication and presentation skills. Tim Thomas, the program board president, described the Challenge as "a 34 year old, statewide program" that teaches computational research and professional skills and helps expose students to higher education and career opportunities.
Program manager Patty Meyer provided participation metrics: historically 12,123 students have taken part and more than 1,200 teachers have been involved; last year's demographics included about 39% Hispanic, 25% white, 13% Asian and 8% African American participants, and the program reports female participation reached roughly 50% in recent years. Organizers emphasized the program reaches urban and rural districts statewide and cited past finalist projects ranging from optimizing nutrition delivery models for millions of children to assistive robotics for stroke survivors.
Panelists said state support previously provided about $200,000 per year before the COVID pandemic; that funding stopped during revenue shortfalls and private contributions declined. The group asked the committee to support Representative Christine Chandler's forthcoming appropriation bill and recommended New Mexico Tech serve as fiscal agent for state funds. Tim Thomas summarized the request: "Our request is for $200,000 of recurring support starting in fiscal year 2026."
David, the program's executive director, outlined how funds would be used for a kickoff conference (roughly $30,000), a summer teacher institute to train educators, an in‑person expo and awards ceremony, and to hire a part‑time program manager for statewide recruitment and support. Panelists argued stable state funding would encourage private partners to restore larger contributions and help the program re‑establish in‑person events and teacher outreach that were curtailed during the pandemic.
Committee members praised the program. Senator Stewart said the Challenge is "an incredible program" that should be part of the budget every year. Members asked for schedule and teacher institute details; presenters described registration milestones, interim reports, regional project evaluations, and the final written report and expo in spring. Presenters offered to share finalist reports and additional materials with members.
The committee did not vote on an appropriation; presenters were encouraged to work with Representative Chandler and the LFC during budget development.
