FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC)(http://www.usfirst.org)

THE GOAL: The FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) challenges teams of students and their mentors to design and build a robot in a six-week timeframe, using a standard kit of parts. The team has to analyze the game and strategize what type of robot would perform well. Typical teams meet months in advance of the building period to learn basic skills and be better prepared.

The goal isn't simply to build a robot; the robot is a vehicle for learning much more. The real goal is building a collaborative team, a supportive community and a solid strategy for problem solving during the competition.

WINNING: FIRST redefines winning for these students. Scoring the greatest number of points is terrific, but winning comes with excellence in design, gracious professionalism, and the ability and maturity to overcome obstacles as a team. Winning means building partnerships with other students, professionals, and schools and businesses.

THE EVENTS: After the six week build period, teams compete at regional events across the U.S. and Canada. Award winners and event champions qualify for the National Championship

Event. Teams, fans and spectators will number over 20,000 for this single three-day event.

RESULTS: The positive impact of FIRST has been demonstrated in multiple studies. These studies show improvements in self-confidence, teamwork, and attitudes about science andscientific careers.

HIGHER EDUCATION: FIRST provides students with the inspiration and confidence they need to consider college and to pursue educational and professional opportunity. There are also potential financial benefits; last year over $10 million in college scholarships were available to students participating in FIRST. Georgia Tech is a participant in this scholarship program. To find out more about scholarship opportunities, please visit: (http://www.usfirst.org/scholarshipsearch.aspx)

FIRST TECH CHALLENGE (FTC)

FTC is an accessible, affordable robotics competition designed for high-school-aged students. Each fall teams of up to ten students compete at high-energy regional tournaments where thestudents, collaborating with mentors, must apply math and science concepts to solve the annual challenge. Designed to provide more real-world relevance for participants, the new FTC starter system consists of a TETRIX metal robot structure kit, LEGO, MINDSTORMS, NXT robotics kit, servomotors, controllers, advanced sensors and LEGO NXT, NXTG, LabView for FTC, and RobotC programming software.