More than 1,500 Indiana High Schoolers to Attend the Indy Autonomous Challenge Racing Event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway
September 3, 2024 – Indianapolis, IN — The Indy Autonomous Challenge (IAC), the organization behind the world’s fastest autonomous racecar has partnered with the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) to invite high school students to their landmark autonomous race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on September 6, 2024. Registration for the STEM Zone closed last week after reaching maximum capacity of over 1,500 Hoosier high school students from 42 schools and 22 counties.
IAC and IDOE collaborated on the STEM Zone with the goal of educating, engaging, and inspiring the next generation of Hoosier engineers, scientists, and tech talent. The STEM Zone will take place in Pagoda Plaza at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway from 10:00am to 1:00pm and showcase exhibits provided by clubs, colleges and universities. Students will also have access to the Innovation Paddock exhibits in Trackside Garages with interactive displays provided by industry-leading high-tech companies.
The opening ceremonies and on-track autonomous racing competition will begin at 1:00pm, and the students will have exclusive seating in the Gasoline Alley Grandstands overlooking pitlane. This will allow the students a birds-eye view of the IAC’s cutting-edge AI and robotics technology on full display.
STEM Zone exhibitors:
In a vibrant showcase of technology meets fashion the IAC has partnered with Indiana-based streetwear brand MELI to distribute limited edition t-shirts to all of the high school students attending the STEM Zone. The t-shirts, co-designed by MELI and IAC, pay homage to Indiana’s local innovation ecosystem and the power of cross-cultural collaboration to shape the next generation of Hoosier talent into a socio-economic powerhouse.
Paul Mitchell, President and Chairman of the IAC: “The STEM Zone will offer Hoosier high schoolers a mash-up of technology innovation, education opportunities, high tech fashion, and a motorsports AI & robotics spectacle. This will empower and showcase how they can chart their own paths to become STEM superstars.”
Monty Matuka, CEO and Founder of MELI: “Fashion is often perceived as exclusive and only accessible to a limited group of people, particularly in renowned fashion cities like New York or Paris. By establishing MELI in Indiana, I aim to challenge that notion and give back to the state that has given me so much. Despite skepticism from industry peers, I’ve demonstrated that fashion and innovation can flourish right here in Indiana. IAC and IDOE are proving that anyone can get into STEM, and MELI reciprocates by making fashion available to everyone.”
For press credentials or additional information, please contact Marc Ferlet: marc.ferlet@indyautonomouschallenge.com // +1 (317) 662-5070
About the IAC: The Indy Autonomous Challenge (IAC) is a non-profit corporation based in Indianapolis, Indiana (USA) that organizes racing competitions among university-affiliated teams from around the world. Teams program AI drivers to pilot fully autonomous racecars and compete in a series of history-making events at iconic tracks. The IAC is working to establish a hub for performance automation in the state and is harnessing the power of innovative competitions to attract the best and the brightest minds from around the globe to further state-of-the-art technology in the safety and performance of autonomous vehicles. The IAC started as a $1 million prize competition with 31 university teams signing up to compete more than three years ago, representing top engineering and technology programs from 15 U.S. states and 11 countries. Follow the IAC @IndyAChallenge on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & YouTube
About MELI: MELI (More Equality Less Ignorance) is a sophisticated streetwear brand founded by Monty Matuka in 2019. Based in Indianapolis, Indiana (USA), MELI combines fashion with social impact, creating collections that embody the brand's mission of promoting equality, diversity, and cultural awareness. MELI has quickly gained recognition for its innovative designs, which blend high fashion with powerful social messages. The brand’s immersive runway shows and collaborations with global partners highlight its commitment to empowerment, inclusivity, and innovation. MELI's collections have been featured in renowned events such as LA Fashion Week, and the brand has collaborated with influential organizations like the Indiana Pacers and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Beyond fashion, MELI offers programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities to underserved communities, fostering a sense of inclusivity and empowerment. Follow MELI on Instagram @meli_intl and explore more at www.meli-intl.com.