Clarkson University’s FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics program has received a second grant from Corning Incorporated Foundation. FIRST Robotics is a mentor-based engagement program that builds science, engineering, and technology skills, inspires innovation and fosters self-confidence, communication and leadership skills in high school students.
The mentorship program consists of approximately 20 local high school students and 20 undergraduate students working together to build and program a robot under strict rules, limited resources, and time limits. Their robot will then face-off against other teams in tournaments, regional competitions, and, if successful, a nationwide competition. STEM professionals, alumni of the program, faculty and staff serve as volunteer advisors to the team.
One of the main objectives of the program is to engage local high school students in STEM opportunities and encourage them to pursue STEM education or careers. In partnership with FIRST, Clarkson awards up to 12 merit-based scholarships to students who participated on a FIRST team. Many students who participated in the program while in high school are now engineering students at Clarkson and serving as mentors for the team. In the 19-year history of the FIRST Robotics program, Clarkson’s team has qualified for the national championship ten times.
The Corning Incorporated Foundation is a charitable contributions organization established by Corning Incorporated in 1952. Through leadership and collaboration, the Foundation strives to foster vibrant, enriching, and supportive Corning communities. The Foundation focuses on education, human services culture, volunteerism and Corning business locations.
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