Recently, in Pittsburgh, PA, Intel hosted a large invention competition called the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), which involved more than 1700 high school contestants from over 400 different schools.

Two brothers developed advanced computational software to analyze the interaction of cancer cell gene fragments with proteins. Inventions in the modern world often fall into two categories. Oftentimes, a new invention will either improve previous inventions in some way. The second type of new invention is something that is completely new. Many of both of these types of inventions end up involving applications of computer programming in one way or another. Integration of computers and programming into every part of science, technology, and day to day life is part of the forefront of innovation throughout the world. These two brothers did just that by using programming to further medical science.

While this was just one of many entrants and prize recipient projects presented at ISEF, it is indicative of the type of innovation we need in the near future. All of these teens were chosen to participate because they sought ways to perfect or innovate an old problem with new technology and know-how.

I know that you are wondering what good this does your kids. Well, if you want your children to have the opportunity to create something that may be worthy for something like ISEF, it is a good idea to start early. Instill and encourage a love of science and technology in your child outside of school. CodeRev Kids is a great Santa Monica, CA company which specializes in teaching children how to program and be creative with computer technology. Their programs for children as young as 6 years old can be a great first step in creating an enriching life in a STEM career for your child. CodeRev offers a variety of hands-on programs which cover fun areas of computers and programming, from robotics to website and video game design. They can learn great new skills than can even get them a job later in life while have a huge amount of fun. Look at those teenagers at ISEF. I bet a few of them had parents that did such things.