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Founded in 1989 by
inventor and entrepreneur Dean Kamen, FIRST (For Inspiration
and Recognition of Science and Technology) inspires interest
and participation of young people in the fields of science and
technology. The organization designs innovative programs
that motivate young people to pursue education and career
opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math,
while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills.
The ideals of FIRST
reach to over 195,000 students worldwide with the FIRST
Robotics Competition and the FIRST Tech Challenge for
high-school students, the FIRST LEGO League for students, ages
9 to 15, and the Junior FIRST LEGO League for elementary
students. Supported by a network of over 3,500
corporations, educational and professional institutions, and
individuals, FIRST offers over 600 individual scholarship
opportunities and over $9 million in college scholarships each
year.
"Gracious
Professionalism," coined by FIRST National Advisor Dr. Woodie
Flowers, is part of the culture of FIRST, encouraging
high-quality work, emphasizing the value of others, and
respecting individuals and the community. Gracious
professionals learn and compete like crazy, but treat one
another with respect and kindness in the process. Knowledge,
competition, and empathy are comfortably blended. In the
long run, "Gracious Professionalism" is part of pursuing a
meaningful life. One can add to society and enjoy the
satisfaction of knowing one has acted with integrity and
sensitivity.
The Robowranglers
participate in the FIRST Robotics Competition, an exciting
program that assimilates teams, sponsors, colleges, and
technical professionals with high school students to develop
their solution to a prescribed engineering challenge in a
competitive game environment. The competitions combine
the practical application of science and technology with the
fun, intense energy, and excitement of a championship-sporting
event. The program results in life-changing and career
molding experiences for its participants.
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