FIRST stands for “For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology” and was developed to stimulate creativity and appreciation of science and technology. A goal is to make science and technology exciting like sports.

 

Since the beginning of the FIRST program in1992, the competition has gradually expanded with a total 1,809 teams and over 45,000 high school students participating this year from around the world. Every year the content and rules of the competition change and the functions and features of the robot change accordingly so it requires new designs and strategies each year. Regional competitions are held at various sites around the world with winning teams then competing for the World Championship much like a sporting event.

 

Many of the participants based upon their experiences in the FIRST program then enter famous universities in fields of engineering and technology. It is important to take the initiative to train those who will become leaders in the field of science and technology especially developing excellent people who will support the development of new industries in the future.

 

In addition to receiving a medal for first place in the competition, the LASER (Laker Afterschool Science, Engineering, and Robotics) 3284 team was awarded the prestigious Engineering Inspiration medal. The robot was capable of accurately shooting 50 balls in seven seconds with its dual shooters.

 

Through the FIRST program and FRC, Nihon Superior is proud to support the development of young American engineers and looks forward to continuing to support such a wide range of activities. After the competition, the LASER team presented one of each of medals they received to the company in honor of the its support.