The Tri-City Area of Michigan's FIRST Robotics Team "Metal and Soul" recently won the Chairman's Award at a district competition, which is given to a team that the others school should emulate. This win provides visibility to students who have been solving real-world problem with technology for some time.

"Ask any FIRST Robotics student, mentor or team leader and they'll tell you that testing their science, technology, engineering and math skills is not only fun, it's creative and rewarding too," reports the Tri-City Times. "Students get to perform hands-on tasks and gain valuable experience in STEM fields; learn how to organize the task at hand; exercise creativity and 'out of the box' thinking to meet challenges, problem-solve, and work as a team. They give and take direction, build communication and leadership skills and bolster their confidence when it comes to working under pressure to reach a goal."

Volunteer mentors and team leaders work with students after school hours as an extra curricular activity, and help students benefit from their own professional experience. They also help fundraise for equipment and supplies, and for the opportunity to compete.

"Area school districts participation in the US FIRST Robotics program and the teachers, mentors and parents who volunteer are offering students a priceless opportunity to spread their wings, test their skills and find and hone their competitive edge in STEM fields," reports the Tri-City Times. "Regardless of the outcome at competitions on all levels, it is a win-win situation for all."

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Article by Samantha DiMauro, Education World Contributor