Transporting Today's Tech for Tomorrow's Leaders

As the pressure increases for technological advancements, companies are competing to produce the next big innovation that helps society work smarter, not harder. The demand for talent from the STEM sector is growing and necessary to help vital career fields for things such as medical and engineering advancements.

FIRST, a 501c3 non-profit founded by Dean Kamen, has a vision to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders and innovators. It engages them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills. The programs inspire innovation and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication and leadership.

Each year, FIRST gathers over half a million students around the world for thousands of robotics competitions that culminate at two global championship events. In 2019 alone, more than 615,000 students participated on over 55,000 FIRST teams. To make these competitions possible, robots and parts need to be transported sometimes thousands of miles to events around the world.  For over 10 years, FedEx has donated shipping valued at more than $15 million to FIRST competitions around the world. And through FedEx Cares, our team members volunteer at championship events in support of the next generation of STEM leaders.

This year FedEx President Rajesh Subramaniam attended FIRST Detroit Championships to receive FIRST’s Founders Award on behalf of FedEx. This award is given to an organization or individual that has contributed significantly to the growth of FIRST. Raj was treated to a behind-the-scenes look at one of the greatest celebrations of technology on Earth—the robotics extravaganza at FIRST Championship. The event drew more than 44,000 robotics students, mentors and supporters to Detroit for the competition’s season finale.

“I am still smiling from the energy, excitement and creative genius of those in attendance. These students—and their custom robots—are seriously impressive.” -Raj Subramaniam, LinkedIn 

FedEx has supported FIRST for the last 17 years and will continue to help FIRST grow their mission for many years to come.