SCHENECTADY, N.Y. -- The Science and Technology Entry Program Regional Science Bowl gave students from across the state the chance to compete on the national level. Eighty middle and high school students broken into 16 teams participated.

STEP's goal is to encourage students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math.

In the jeopardy style contest, each team was mentored by several universities and institutions from around the state including RPI, UAlbany, Albany Medical College, Syracuse University, RIT and Union.

The national finals, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, will take place in Washington DC in May.

Time Warner Cable highlights initiatives like this event with the "Connect a Million Minds" program. For more information, head to connectamillionminds.com.