MT Magazine May/June 2023

MAY/JUNE 2023

23

IMTS

Each of the super-talented FIRST Robotics teams received prizes for their awesome robots.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS, IMPORTANT CONNECTIONS WORKING WITH ROBOTICS TEAMS IN YOUR AREA

By building relationships with FIRST Robotics teams, manufacturers can nurture the next generation of STEM superstars — and may just meet their next programmer or machinist.

FIRST coaches recommend the following approaches for connecting with teams

1. Volunteer. Become a judge or a volunteer for a FIRST event. You’ll get to meet the participants and see their abilities up close.

2. Sponsor. Offer to provide a sponsorship for a local team.

3. Support. Provide parts, tools, or technology for a local team. Parts you can quickly make from scrap materials may be extremely valuable for a robot build.

4. Open Your Doors. Find local teams through the FIRST website or a simple Google search. Invite the team to tour your shop or facility to show them your technology and capabilities and learn more about their interests.

LEARN MORE AT FIRSTINSPIRES.ORG