12 students awarded Dematic FIRST scholarships to pursue STEM education

Dematic, a global leader in supply chain automation, has named the recipients of its 2025 Dematic FIRST Scholarship program. Designed to support rising talent in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), the annual scholarship recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional potential and a passion for innovation. Aligned with FIRST’s mission to inspire future leaders in STEM, the scholarship reflects Dematic’s continued investment in the next generation of supply chain and logistics professionals.

The 2025 Dematic FIRST Scholarship program will provide support to 12 students as they pursue STEM education. Sarah Milligan and Harish Pravin were each recognized with $5,000 awards, while 10 others received $1,000 scholarships: Oishik Auddy, Melody Barnhart, Cabot Clark, Andrew Creswick, Nicholas Donatelli, Maddox Gannon, He Kainth, Jacob Mazelin, Orion Ramirez, and Quinn Stephenson. 

“We proudly support future STEM leaders through our partnership with FIRST,” says Mike Larsson, President, Dematic and KION Group Executive Board Member. “Every year, I’m inspired by the innovation, drive, and leadership potential I see in these students. Investing in STEM education is not only an investment in individual leaders but also a strategic commitment to advancing technology and shaping the future of the industry.”

Now in its fifth year, the Dematic FIRST Scholarship program received applications from aspiring STEM leaders across 12 states and Canada. A panel of Dematic leaders evaluated applicants based on their academic strength, creativity, and a dedication for shaping the future of science and technology. To qualify, students submitted transcripts, a recommendation letter, and an essay proposing a solution to water resource issues using existing or emerging technologies. Eligibility also required prior participation in a FIRST Robotics Competition or FIRST Tech Challenge.

“As a student attending an out-of-state college, the cost of my education is immense. This scholarship is helping fund my dream education while honoring my growth and contributions within FIRST,” says Milligan. “Dematic's scholarship program further pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and conduct primary research, strengthening my research and communication skills. I am incredibly grateful for the many opportunities that FIRST and Dematic have given me and look forward to giving back as my education enables me to reach new heights.”

Dematic is dedicated to supporting FIRST and its mission to engage youth to become skilled professionals, creative thinkers, and well-rounded citizens. Dematic employees actively contribute to FIRST teams by providing mentorship and guidance. Last year, Dematic sponsored 20 FIRST teams and donated $71,000 to support students as they prepared for competitions and careers in STEM. Since the partnership began in 2008, Dematic has sponsored teams participating in FIRST robotics competitions and invested more than $390,000 in local teams, events, and student scholarships.