FIRST

Up-A-Creek Robotics develops robots to compete in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), which is part of FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology).  FIRST was founded by Dean Kamen, best known for inventing the Segway Personal Transporter.

Dean Kamen is an inventor, entrepreneur, and tireless advocate for science and technology. His passion and determination to help young people discover the excitement and rewards of science and technology are the cornerstones of FIRST.  FIRST was founded in 1989 to inspire young people's interest and participation in science and technology.

Based in Manchester, NH, the 501 (c) (3) non-profit public charity designs accessible, 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 FIRST Robotics Competition has been dubbed the "t he varsity sport for the mind."  What's it about?  How about an challenging opportunity to:

• Discover and innovate in a student led setting.

• Raise funds.

• Design a team "brand."

• Hone teamwork skills.

It’s as close to "real-world engineering" as a student can get.  Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team.

An interesting aspect of the FRC is that the competition task changes every year.

For example:

• 2005 involved playing tic tac toe with large tetrahedrons

• 2008 involved racing around a track with large balls

• 2011 involved hanging inner tubes on pegs

• Changing the competition task each year keeps it fun and challenging!