Imagine a school where the science fair is as popular as the high school homecoming game. Where fans chant wildly for Byting Bulldogs, A Flock of Nerds, and Benzene Bots. FIRST Robotics is kind of like that. And it’s getting more like that every year.

Michigan FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is part of a national, nonprofit organization that inspires young people to be science and technology leaders. The programs are in about 30% of Michigan’s school districts. Find your school here.

With the help from companies like Consumers Energy, Michigan FIRST Robotics has been growing teams and inspiring young minds to consider STEM pursuits. In 2019, The Consumers Energy Foundation contributed more than $450,000 to support STEM programs, including FIRST teams at elementary, middle school and high school levels across the state. Our employees volunteer as mentors for teams throughout the year and also help power the students on the robotics teams at the state championship with mobile charging stations, laptops and printers.

Robotics is Your Ticket Back into Your Child’s Classroom

Ever dreamed of being a pit manager? What about a queuer? (Really, it’s a robotics thing.) How about a mentor? Michigan FIRST Robotics’ volunteers support, inspire and are role models for teams.

• Become a mentor. Are you an engineer or techie who enjoys working with kids? Your expertise and passion for STEM will be put to great use mentoring a team.
• Volunteer to host the team. Parents often host teams, providing practice room and snacks to fuel success.
• Plan fundraisers. Teams may need additional funds to enter competitions, and purchase materials and team swag. If you’re good at raising money, chances are there’s a good place for you on a local team.
• Support an event. Competitions require a lot of volunteers to run a smooth event.

Contact Michigan FIRST Robotics to learn how your expertise and volunteerism might be put to work supporting a local team.