To foster the technological literacy of society, ASME and FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) signed an agreement of affiliation whereby the two would work together to achieve this goal.  Each year, FIRST hosts a major robotics competition, a perfect vehicle for ASME members to work with students to learn about engineering and develop high-tech robots. Since 1996 ASME has endorsed and encouraged our members' and student members' participation in the FIRST Robotics Competition. We think it is an outstanding activity for exposing young people to real-life engineering experience, and a chance to work with practicing engineers. For students and professionals, it is an exciting chance to experience a full six week 'design-build-test' cycle, with some high-tech ingredients and the fun of guiding the young people on the team.
 
About the Competition
A national engineering contest, the FIRST Competition immerses middle and high school students in the world of engineering. Working with engineers from businesses and/or universities, students get a hands-on, inside look at the engineering profession. The partnerships developed among schools, businesses and universities provide an exchange of resources and talent, highlighting mutual needs, building cooperation, and exposing students to new career choices and opportunities in the world of engineering.

The FIRST Competition provides companies, practicing engineers, engineering students and teachers the opportunity to introduce the excitement and challenges of engineering to all students from all backgrounds.

In six intense weeks, students and engineers brainstorm, design, construct and test their "champion robot." With such a schedule participants experience a real time product development cycle.

Once the products meet the teams' standards, the teams then compete in no-holds barred tournaments, culminating in the national sporting event, complete with cheerleaders, boisterous spectators, referees, judges and time clocks. 

The Role of the Engineer and the Engineering Students
While the high school students are actively involved in the design of the robots, the engineers & engineering students take the lead, use their skills, direct the students and show the students what engineering is all about.

As a member of ASME, you can make a difference.

Become involved!

• Form a team, involving students, faculty and other mechanical engineers
• Be a judge
• Serve as a referee
• Garner corporate support