FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a national program, originating in 1989, designed to inspire young creative minds to be science and technology leaders. It is mentored-based and focused on building self-confidence, communication and leadership skills in young people. Program founder, Dean Kamen, has the vision to make the world a place where science and technology is celebrated. This not-for-profit charity does just that.
There is an ethical component of FIRST called “gracious professionalism”. This term was coined by Dr. Woodie Flowers, the National Advisor and an engineering professor. This concept of “gracious professionalism” involves high quality work, valuing others, and respecting individuals and the community.
On a local note, the Great Plains Technology Center‘s Pre-Engineering Program has accepted the FIRST challenge. A group of students and mentors started in the FIRST Robotics Competition in 2008. An intrinsic value of this program includes inspiring young people to appreciate and prepare for science, technology, engineering and math careers. The FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) provides ethical and creative components that enrich the pre-engineering curriculum.
The Pre-Engineering Program is part of the Oklahoma Career Tech System. There are over nine of these specialized Oklahoma Pre-Engineering programs in the state; they were all encouraged to participate in the FIRST Robotics competition so that there would be enough teams locally and therefore draw a regional competition. Oklahoma succeeded and a regional competition was held in Oklahoma City, March 20-22 of 2008 for the first time.
The Soldiers of Technology, Team 2435, is a collaboration between Great Plains Technology Center’s Pre-Engineering Academy and the sending schools to the technology center in Lawton-Ft.Sill, OK.