The FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition is an international high school robotics competition, founded in 1989 by renowned inventor Dean Kamen. His mission was to inspire high school students by engaging them in an exciting competition that would build science, engineering and technology skills. The purpose is to develop students’ self-confidence, communication, and leadership, and to encourage young people to pursue careers in science and engineering. Since 1989, FRC has grown from only 28 teams to over 1,500.
The FIRST Robotics Competition stages short games played by remote-controlled robots. The robots are designed and built in 6 weeks by a team of 10 to 20 high-school-aged young people and a handful of engineers and other mentors. The students drive and operate the robots via remote control on the field. Competitions take place in March and April. FRC Regional events across the country involve 40 to 70 teams cheered by thousands of fans over three days. The Championship Event caps the season in late April. Referees oversee the competition and Judges present awards to teams for design, technology, sportsmanship and commitment to FIRST.
The American Mural Project wanted to search for young people to participate in an art project that honored the work of American scientists and engineers. FIRST Robotics teams represented groups of students already interested in getting people excited about science and engineering. FRC teams don’t just build robots; many teams actively reach out to the community in an effort to inspire others. The students on these teams had the once in a lifetime opportunity to meet with the scientists and engineers who worked directly on the Mars Exploration Rover missions. FRC teams were glad to help AMP create works of art (with the help of art teachers and students within their own schools) to honor the men and women at the forefront of American innovation and ingenuity. |
