FIRST® Robotics 2019 Challenge Kickoff held in Spencerport
Spencerport’s Team 3015 Ranger Robotics hosted the 2019 FIRST® Robotics kickoff event on January 5 at Spencerport High School. More than 800 students and mentors from 35 area teams attended this important beginning of the FIRST® season for 2019.
FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded in 1989 to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. Based in Manchester, New Hampshire, the 501(c)(3) not-for-profit public charity designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math, while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills.
The 2019 FIRST® Robotics kick-off event occured simultaneously around the world so that all teams could receive the FIRST® game challenge for the season at the same time. At 10:30 a.m., a video was shown where the challenge was unveiled and the season began with a rookie build occurring at Spencerport High School.
The challenge this year is called Deep Space. Teams will race to complete a rocket by placing hatch covers and cargo. They also can place hatch cover and cargo on their cargo ship located in the middle of the field. Finally, teams will try to climb to the highest step in the end game. To view the challenge video go to https://youtu.be/Mew6G_og-PI.
Spencerport’s Team 3015 consists of over 70 students, two high school technology teachers and 15 adult mentors from industry. The program offers a place for students interested in engineering, computer programming, computer aided drawing (design), hands-on mechanical work, marketing and promotions and leadership roles.
With the support of their respective school districts, Spencerport’s Team 3015, Churchville-Chili’s Team 340 and Hilton’s Team 6868 will share a large “Team Warehouse,” giving them extra space to work on their builds for this year’s challenge.
Photos by Karen Fien
Students in the Spencerport High School cafeteria were brainstorming strategy ideas for this year’s FRC Competition.