Issue link: http://www.insightdigital.biz/i/1122874
Ten years ago, Manitowoc County did not have a single robotics team. A group of volunteers, fueled by a love of science, technology and engineering, changed that. They launched Lakeshore FIRST Robotics, and today the county is home to more than 30 teams, with more than 400 students participating in the program. Unlike most robotics organizations, Lakeshore FIRST Robotics is not built around a single school team. Instead, its organizational structure inspires growth and cooperation in Manitowoc County. By encouraging the growth of more teams, rather than focusing on just one, Lakeshore FIRST Robotics has raised the competitive level of its teams and provided more opportunities for students. K-12 students can participate in the program and work with engineering professional mentors on their projects across four levels of competition. By working with these mentors, the students not only deepen their STEM knowledge but also learn vital leadership and teamwork skills. Volunteers are at the heart of Lakeshore FIRST Robotics. More than 120 people donate more than 14,000 hours annually to create an emphasis on STEM education. Professional volunteers give students a glimpse of the industry, and an internship program allows participants to sample career pathways. Lakeshore FIRST Robotics also spreads awareness of how important STEM skills are in today's workforce. The program builds a sense of community pride, and many families come from outside Manitowoc County to participate in events and tournaments. The Insight Innovation Awards judges were impressed with Lakeshore FIRST Robotics' results and with the way it's become a state leader in organizing robotics programs. La Crosse and Milwaukee are just two examples of communities that are creating a framework like Manitowoc County's. PEOPLE F O S T E R I N G I N T E R E S T I N S T E M C A R E E R S , O N E S T U D E N T AT A T I M E V I D E O O N L I N E : Visit insightonbusiness.com/events/thinc-2/ insight-innovation-award-winners to see a video featuring People winner Lakeshore FIRST Robotics and finalists Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region and St. Paul Elder Services. LAKESHORE FIRST ROBOTICS Run by volunteers, Lakeshore FIRST Robotics has transformed Manitowoc County's youth robotics program in the past 10 years. In 2009, the county did not have a single robotics team and today there are more than 30 teams. The organization's focus on creating countywide teams versus a team at a particular school has increased participation and serves as a model to other communities looking to boost involvement in their robotics and STEM activities. Nick Ruzek accepted the award on behalf of Lakeshore FIRST Robotics at the annual THINC! Conference. Nicoletbank.com | 800.369.0226 Nicolet Bank is a Proud Sponsor of THINC! Chris Dimmer SVP Retail Manager A_NB62-0419 THINC Sponsorship Quarter Page Ad Final 2.indd 1 5/13/19 4:26 PM