Episode 24 - Empowering Innovation: Ashley Robbins on the Impact of FIRST Indiana Robotics and the Future of Student-Led Teams
Description
Ashley Robbins, the executive director of FIRST Indiana Robotics, discusses the world of robotics and the impact it has on students. She explains that robotics provides a safe space for students to be creative and explore their interests, regardless of their background or social skills. The robotics teams are mentor-driven and consist of students with various roles, such as coding, mechanical design, and marketing. The competitions involve completing objectives and earning points, both on and off the field. Winning is not only based on robot performance but also on teamwork, innovation, and community outreach. The robotics programs have been growing in popularity, with over 350 teams in Indiana alone.
Takeaways
- Robotics provides a safe space for students to explore their interests and be creative.
- Teams are mentor-driven and consist of students with various roles.
- Competitions involve completing objectives and earning points, both on and off the field.
- Winning is based on robot performance as well as teamwork, innovation, and community outreach.
- Robotics programs have been growing in popularity.
- First Indiana Robotics helps schools, parents, and community leaders start robotics teams to increase STEM access for students.
- Funding is available through grants and scholarships, and the organization assists in identifying funding sources.
- Legislation in Indiana has opened up funding for competitive K-12 robotics, allowing more schools and community programs to participate.
- The organization aims to expand access to robotics programs in all corners of the state and provide diverse representation in STEM fields.
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