FIRST Robotics
FIRST© (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), a not-for-profit organization founded by inventor Dean Kamen to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology, today announced an alliance agreement with the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) aimed at increasing the number of middle and high-school students choosing to pursue careers in science and technology. The agreement establishes a framework for FIRST and SWE to jointly participate in each organization’s programs and promote an active interest in science and technology among school-age students.
The alliance will allow FIRST and SWE to engage their affiliates in business, education and higher education to increase awareness and enrollment of student programs in science and technology. In addition to increasing participation in science and technology among young people, the agreement emphasizes the primary goal of increasing the number girls participating in FIRST robotics competitions.
"The recruitment, retention and upward mobility of women engineers continues to be at the core of SWE’s programs and efforts," said Nora Lin, president of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). "SWE has a rich history of outreach to young girls and women, encouraging them to pursue technical careers. We see our Strategic Alliance with FIRST as another important step toward fulfilling our goal of increasing and sustaining opportunities for women in engineering and science."
"There is a critical need for well-trained, qualified engineers, scientists and technical specialists to meet the growing demand for a scientific and technical workforce,” said Paul R. Gudonis, president of FIRST. “While FIRST initiates a love of science and technology among young people, our partnership with SWE can provide our female students with unique professional guidance from the female perspective and direct young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math."
A challenge from your webmaster: I will be at the Buckeye Regional (March 25 - 27 at the Wolstein Center at CSU) volunteering with the event. I challenge you to help a team (with time & or money), volunteer with the event, and/or just show up and cheer. You will be amazed and have a blast.
