For the past several years, Comcast has been working with FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), an organization committed to making science and technology cool for high school students. The organization was started by Dean Kamen, a notable inventor, entrepreneur and a tireless advocate for science and technology. You may also know him as the inventor of the Segway® Human Transporter.

One of FIRST’s most recognizable projects is the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC). They often call it a varsity Sport for the Mind and it combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. Under strict rules, limited resources, and time limits, teams of 25 students or more are challenged to raise funds, design a team "brand," hone teamwork skills, and build and program a robot to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors. According to FIRST, it’s as close to "real world" engineering as a student can get. Professional mentors from participating companies volunteer their time and talents to guide each team. Through the Comcast Foundation, Comcast is proud to sponsor and mentor 52 teams across the country for the annual robotics competition this year. 

 

With the 2013 FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) season in full swing, it’s time to announce another first. This year also marks the inaugural presentation of the Media & Technology Innovation Award from Comcast. Students are being encouraged to develop a team marketing strategy complete with rationale for digital channels/devices to disseminate content and build brand awareness of FIRST and its mission. The Media & Technology Innovation Award will be judged on Strategy, Overall Experience, Visual Design, Navigation, Content, Functionality and Engagement. The winner will be chosen by Comcast and presented with the award at Championships on April 24-27th in the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, Missouri. We look forward to sharing more information here about all the winners of the FRC and highlighting the winner of the Media & Technology Innovation Award. In the meantime, please visit USFirst.org for more information.