...For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST™) Robotics Competition, for the sixth consecutive year. In addition to its sponsorship, Hughes executives participated as judges for the Chesapeake Regional competition which was held March 8-10, 2012, at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, Maryland, and will participate as judges in the DC Regional competition being held March 29-31, 2012, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC. Winners of the regional competitions will participate in the FIRST Championship being held April 25-28, 2012 at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, MO.
“Hughes is committed to helping students cultivate a deep interest in science and engineering to nurture the next generation of technology leaders,” said Dr. Arunas Slekys, vice president of Corporate Marketing, Hughes. “This is truly their Super Bowl and gives them the opportunity to experience the challenge of solving real-world engineering problems in a team-oriented and fun competition.”
The FIRST Robotics Competition gathers teams of 15-25 high school students to build a complete robotics package with the assistance of mentors—from raising funds and creating a brand, to the intricate process of programming a robot to complete specified tasks. Teams are judged for robot design, creativity, innovation, performance and teamwork—both during the competition as well as throughout the entire process.
“Science and engineering underpins our ability to create a more efficient and effective government and military, protecting our homeland and better serving our citizens,” said Allen Murray, senior director of the Defense and Intelligence Systems Division, Hughes, and judge at the Chesapeake Regional FIRST Robotics Competition. “We congratulate these young technologists, future engineers and leaders, who are paving the way for continued innovation and advancement of our society.”