Tech Citizenship
2007
19 Tech Companies That Give Back to the Community
MathWorks has designs for ed
Callanan
In 1991, The MathWorks Inc. assessed what it wanted to be as a company and came up with four tenets. The fourth tenet was a commitment to giving back to the community, and the Natick-based software company has kept that promise.
MathWorks makes engineering software products, including MATLAB and Simulink, which are used by engineers, scientists and mathematicians worldwide.
“We would like to make a contribution and would like to give engineering students an opportunity using our tools to have a positive impact in the world,” said Elizabeth Callanan, corporate relations manager at MathWorks.
MathWorks hosts workshops for students and teachers to show them career paths they can take in math, science and engineering. Recently, Callanan said, an engineering student at Tufts University who attended one of these workshops thanked her for showing that there was a future in engineering.
In university competitions, students solve technical problems using MATLAB and Simulink, Callanan said. The competitions help MathWorks get feedback on the use of its tools, and creates dedicated users.
All full-time employees get one paid volunteer day per year. Employees that are actively involved with a charity can apply for end-of-the-year funds from MathWorks, Callanan said. It’s on a 100-point scale, and the charity with the most votes gets the funds.
In May 2007, MathWorks employees participated in beautifying the Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary in Natick by clearing bushes, trees and invasive plants, Callanan said.
— James Zipadelli is a freelance writer based in Boston.
Citizenship Facts
The MathWorks Inc.
Total cash contributions in New England in 2006: $300,000
Number of volunteer hours in New England in 2006: 4,000
In-kind contributions of equipment and services in New England: $300,000
Principal recipients of charitable activities in 2006: CARE International education programs; Natick Broadmoor Audubon Sanctuary; Habitat for Humanity; Town of Natick for soccer field
Interesting philanthropic activities: The MathWorks supports activities such as volunteer events in large groups, the development of automotive technology via curriculum and competitions, university scholarships in engineering, mentoring programs, and an end-of-year staff-driven donations program.
Host Sponsor
Partner Sponsor
Patron Sponsor
Patron Sponsor