What is Robotics?

With the United States lacking in students willing to enter schools to pursue careers in Science, Engineering, Technology, and Math (STEM), we are falling behind in the technologically advanced world. Many of the corporations that have moved their operations overseas have done so due to the lack of skilled technology workers in this country. The mission of the Robotic Dragons is to inspire the next generation of students to pursue careers in STEM fields through the FIRST Robotics Program.

Vision of FIRST

“To transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people dream of becoming science and technology leaders.” Dean Kamen, Founder

The Mission of FIRST

Our mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-con dence, communication, and leadership.This is accomplished through the FIRST Robotics program. A not-for-profit organization founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen, FIRST inspires young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. 

Gracious Professionalism

Dr. Woodie Flowers, FIRST National Advisor and Pappalardo Professor Emeritus of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, coined the term “Gracious Professionalism.”

Gracious Professionalism is part of the ethos of FIRST. It’s a way of doing things that encourages high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects individuals and the community. With Gracious Professionalism, fierce competition and mutual gain are not separate notions. Gracious professionals learn and compete like crazy, but treat one another with respect and kindness in the process. They avoid treating anyone like losers. No chest thumping tough talk, but no sticky-sweet platitudes either. Knowledge, competition, and empathy are comfortably blended. In the long run, Gracious Professionalism is part of pursuing a meaningful life. One can add to society and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing one has acted with integrity and sensitivity.

Coopertition

Coopertition® produces innovation. At FIRST, Coopertition is displaying unqualified kindness and respect in the face of fierce competition. Coopertition is founded on the concept and a philosophy that teams can and should help and cooperate with each other even as they compete. Coopertition involves learning from teammates. It is teaching teammates. It is learning from Mentors. And it is managing and being managed. Coopertition means competing always, but assisting and enabling others when you can.

Scholarships

Yes, THIS IS A SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM!!!!! 

For the 2022/2023 Season FIRST offering all of its participants:

More than 200 Scholarship Providers 

$ 80 MILLION Dollars in Scholarship Funds available

Requirements: participate one year in FIRST