Racing with Rajah: From STEM to Speed

To kick off Spring Break 2025, we teamed up with Microsoft Philanthropies, the RCX Sports Foundation, and Best Buy to bring 30 middle school students into the fast-paced world of motorsports with Racing with Rajah Caruth: a hands-on, high-tech deep dive into STEM, AI, and professional racing, all led by one of NASCAR’s rising stars.

The day kicked off at Handy’s headquarters, where our Youth got the chance to chat with Rajah Caruth himself over Zoom. They asked him about his journey, his challenges, and what it really takes to make it in NASCAR. His story was a testament to the fact that with hard work and the right opportunities, anything is possible.

Then, the students put their creativity to the test. With Microsoft Copilot, they designed their own racing personas—complete with driver names, custom car colors, team logos, and even hobbies. Their digital creations came to life as they built AI-powered avatars and brand kits, just like real racers.

But what’s racing without a little hands-on action? At the Best Buy Teen Tech Center, students got behind the wheel, virtually testing their skills on state-of-the-art racing simulators. It was as close to the real thing as it gets without actually being on the track! To top it all off, they got creative, designing signs to cheer on Rajah at the big race.

And then came the grand finale with a trip to the Homestead-Miami Speedway. 

The students stepped into the heart of professional motorsports, feeling the energy of the track, seeing high-performance machines up close, and witnessing firsthand the fusion of technology, speed, and strategy that fuels NASCAR.

“Today builds a bridge for our young people. said Kirk Brown, Handy CEO, “Through Racing with Rajah, they can truly see their place and potential in NASCAR—not just as drivers, but as innovators in technology, mechanical engineering, and the world of high-performance cars.” 

“This experience is invaluable as we guide our Youth from education to the workforce, providing opportunities that help them explore, understand, and acknowledge the careers available to them. At Handy, we are committed to equipping young people with the skills and experiences they need to thrive.”

It was more than just a day at the races. It was about representation, innovation, and showing these students that the world of motorsports, and STEM careers in general, is theirs to explore.

Want to help us create more life-changing experiences like this? Your support makes it possible for us to open doors, spark passion, and fuel the next generation of leaders and innovators. Donate today.