Starting in 2016, the Consortium for Mathematics and Its Applications’ (COMAP) annual Mathematical Contest in Modeling (MCM) added a data insights problem, Problem C. In this new modeling challenge, teams are presented with a modeling problem and data set. In 2020, more than 5,000 teams are anticipated to participate in Problem C.

Beginning in 2018, the American Statistical Association began designating one outstanding team as the winner of the ASA Data Insights Award. While the MCM has traditionally been aimed at mathematics students, students with statistical skills have a unique advantage on Problem C due to MCM’s data analysis focus. The MCM is open to both high-school students and college undergraduates.

Qualified triage judges are needed to assist in the initial review of submissions. In mid-February 2020, triage judges will receive the judging guidelines, initial allocation of papers to review, and examples. On February 22 at 1 p.m. ET (10 a.m. PT), there will be a web training session for Problem C judges. Judging must be completed by March 22. Judges are compensated $10 per paper scored.

If you are interested in serving as a Problem C triage judge, contact Dave Olwell, who coordinates the Problem C judging. Stacey Hancock, who represents the ASA as final judge, can provide more information about Problem C.