preview

First Essay

Decent Essays

Over the past decade there has been a considerable increase in the demand for STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) related jobs. According to Bureau of Labor statistics, STEM jobs are projected to increase by 13 percent between 2012 and 2022. The Department of Commerce reports that “STEM workers command higher wages, earning 29 percent more than their non-STEM counterparts”. So, how are you going to prepare your child for this ever changing job market? FIRST, which stands for For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, is a great way to get your child involved with STEM while still having a fun and enjoyable experience at the same time. FIRST is a global organization dedicated to the promotion and expansion …show more content…

Once students are ready to move on from FLL, they can join a FTC team. Students grades 7 through 12 can participate in FTC. There are two main parts of FTC, Technical and Non-Technical. The technical aspect of the competition involves things like the designing, building, and programming of the robot while the non-technical aspect of the competition deals with finances, logistics, public relations. FRC, which is for students grades 9 through 12, is very similar to FTC in the way that it involves technical and non-technical aspects, but they differ in the amount of skill and dedication that is required by the students. FRC is often called a “sport for the mind” because it combines a competitive team atmosphere with the world of science and technology. It truly is “the hardest fun you’ll ever have”. Being on a FIRST team is a lot of hard work, but you get so much in return: you gain valuable skills, scholarship opportunities, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Students have the opportunity to work with industrial grade tools, use advanced computer design software, and code using languages like C++ and Java, making FIRST a great way to cultivate a student’s passion for STEM. The skills gained through participating in FIRST prove very useful when searching for internships and jobs in the STEM sector, but

Get Access