FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a Non-Profit public charity founded in 1989 by Dean Kamen. This organization aims to inspire young people’s interests and participation in innovation, science and technology by providing accessible pathways and programs that makes the youth engage and be inspired more in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and provide career opportunities related to it.
Fierce competition and mutual gain are not separate notions. Gracious professionals learn and compete like crazy, but treat one another with respect and kindness in the process. They avoid treating anyone like losers. No chest thumping tough talk, but no sticky-sweet platitudes either. Knowledge, competition, and empathy are comfortably blended.
Coopertition® is founded on the concept and a philosophy that teams can and should help and cooperate with each other even as they compete.It involves learning from teammates. It is teaching teammates. It is learning from Mentors. And it is managing and being managed. Coopertition means competing always, but assisting and enabling others when you can.
Team 3161 competes in FRC (FIRST Robotics Competition), an annual competition which challenges teams of students from around the world to design, build, and program a 54kg (120lb) robot in 6 weeks. The robot must perform specialized tasks, each year involving a new game and robot, while competing against other teams in 3 versus 3 matches in tournament style regional events.
Team 3161 is also involved in FLL (FIRST Lego League), a program which encourages children ages 9 through 14 to become interested in the fields of science and technology. Our team members mentor numerous JrFLL, FLL and FRC teams, and run an annual regional tournament for FLL teams in the Halton region