[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 104 (Thursday, June 20, 2019)]
[Senate]
[Pages S4165-S4166]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                        TRIBUTE TO DYLAN WICHMAN

 Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of 
recognizing Dylan Wichman, of Billings, for his impact on the 
Yellowstone community and surrounding areas.
  Dylan, only a rising senior at Billings Central High School, earned 
second place at the State Science Fair and took first at Montana State 
University-Billings' regional fair for his wildfire predictive and 
preventative algorithm, FASTCAT. Dylan also participated in the 
International Science Fair in Phoenix, AZ alongside 1,800 other 
students from 80 countries. Dylan earned third place in his category.
  Inspired by the tragic Paradise Fire in 2018, Dylan put in countless 
hours to develop FASTCAT. FASTCAT is an algorithm used to predict the 
size of wildfires before they even occur, to ensure Montanans will be 
safer and more prepared during fire season. Dylan's artificial 
intelligence algorithm utilizes a neutral network model, ensuring the 
algorithms ability to problem solve as more data is input and analyzed. 
His innovative creation is an impressive improvement in Montana's 
existing fire safety and prevention programs. Dylan hopes to see his 
system implemented State and nationwide and globally in the future. 
Dylan will continue to work on his program alongside a professor at 
University of Montana next year.

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  I congratulate Dylan on his outstanding achievements and willingness 
to give back to his community. I look forward to seeing his success in 
his future endeavors.

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