FIRST: Frequently Asked Questions What kinds of companies and organizations are involved with FIRST? How can I find out if there are FIRST events in my area? Can I attend? How can I get involved and get my company involved with FIRST? How do I get more information about FIRST? What kinds of companies and organizations are involved with FIRST? FIRST is supported by several thousand leading corporations, foundations, educational institutions, and professional organizations across the U.S. These include Baxter International, John Abele (Boston Scientific), DaimlerChrysler, Delphi Automotive Systems, General Motors, Johnson & Johnson, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, Motorola, Xerox, and Yale. Leader companies in aerospace, communications, manufacturing, and technology are involved with FIRST. Over 60 colleges and universities currently provide scholarships, and 15 of the 30 FIRST Robotics Competition regional events will be hosted by educational institutions this year. Major engineering professional associations and societies also work with FIRST as partners and supporters. Back to top How can I find out if there are FIRST events in my area? Can I attend? The FIRST website is the best place to learn about upcoming events. The schedule of events for the 2005 FIRST Robotics Competition is posted on the site, and you can also watch the website for news about local and state activities associated with the FIRST LEGO League Tournament season. There is no charge to go to watch a FIRST competitive event, but be ready to get "hooked" on the challenge and excitement. And please make sure to identify yourself to a FIRST staff member at the event, so that you can get all the information you need to really enjoy yourself. Back to top How can I get involved and get my company involved with FIRST? There are lots of pathways to getting involved with FIRST and many different kinds of people and companies support the FIRST programs. Individuals and entire organizations contribute time and expertise as team mentors and event volunteers: To mentor a team, you bring your technical or business experience, knowledge and skills to a group of willing and eager young people. Volunteering at an event can mean anything from joining a specific committee or championing a VIP reception, to queuing teams in the pit area or working with local media. Senior executives and educators join events as judges, and that typically 3-day commitment is both intense and intensely rewarding. Individuals can work with their organizations or alma mater to provide a scholarship through FIRST; in 2005, over $4.7 million of scholarships are available to students participating in the FIRST Robotics Competition. FIRST, of course, appreciates financial support, and will work with potential contributors to find a meaningful way to direct their support. Back to top How do I get more information about FIRST? The most current and comprehensive information about FIRST and all its programs and initiatives can be found at www.usfirst.org. You can obtain print and video materials about FIRST and its programs by contacting the organization at 1-800-871-8326 and speaking with Marian Murphy at extension #409. You can also email your request to Marian at murphy@usfirst.org. Back to top < Back to program overview
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