UFH: Steve Rourke

[CD47-Bot]

Thread created automatically to discuss UFH Honoree: Steve Rourke.

[Karthik]

When I try and describe Steve Rourke's role within our teams, the best parallel that I can use is to that of the owner of a pro-sports franchise. He's our Mark Cuban or Jerry Jones. He's the team "enabler". He provides every possible resource to make our teams successful. Whatever we ask for (within reason) he makes available for us. In 2004, I remember walking into Steve's office and saying, "Steve, we need to go to a 3rd regional, to give ourselves the best shot at qualifying for Atlanta." We sat down, Steve listened to me as I made my case and once I had, Steve agreed to make it happen.

He's 100% dedicated to the success of FIRST in the Niagara Region, and has worked tirelessly to make it happen. He started with one FRC team in 2003, now he's up to three FRC teams, 14 FLL teams and a regional FLL tournament. But, Steve won't stop here, he still has plenty of plans for growth, and I know for a fact that he'll make them a reality.
Beyond the impact Steve has made through NiagaraFIRST.org, is the impact that he's made on those who work with him. Steve's made a career out of getting the most out of people. He has an amazing knack for recognizing talent, and he knows how to match people up with their strengths.

I've learned a ridiculous amount working with Steve over the years. His quote of "You can't get what you don't ask for" has become my personal motto. He's one of those people who everyone stops to listen to, because he's always saying something of note.

Steve his the perfect UFH, because so many of his efforts are completely behind the scenes. It's great to see someone who does so much for FIRST get some well deserved recognition.

Congratulations Steve, and thanks for all the opportunities you've given me. Furthermore thanks for being a role model and a friend.

[Steve W]

Not much left to say after Karthik's post. Steve is one of the nicest guys I've met in FIRST. Steve, congrats and keep up the great work. You deserve this honor.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Congratulations, Steve. It is obvious that the Canadian teams have become strong through your efforts. Keep up the good work.

[Amanda Morrison]

Congratulations to Steve Rourke, our next Unsung FIRST Hero.

[JVN]

Steve is an absolutely incredible person. Since I have met him in Long Island 2004, he has continually impressed me.

To see him honored here is a great thing.

Steve,
Enjoy the spotlight and the recognition. You've earned it.
I've still got that signed bill; double or nothing in 2006?

John

[tiffany34990]

Congrats to Mr. Rourke. Thank you for all that you do. You have touched so many lives.

[Ken Patton]

Congratulations Steve! The things you guys have done in Canada has been a huge contributor to the growth and strength of FIRST. There's so many enthusiastic people involved. You guys are setting new high standards that the rest of us are learning from. I'm honored to have gotten a chance to meet you last year and to see your teams in action. I can't wait to get a closer look this year when we come to Toronto!

Ken

[Tristan Lall]

Like Karthik, it's been my pleasure to work with Steve as a part of the NiagaraFIRST family. I too must echo Karthik's kind comments; Steve has been instrumental in the rapid growth of FIRST-related activity in the Niagara region, and has been a strong supporter of all facets of engineering-related education, by introducing students to FLL in elementary school, introducing them to FRC in high school, hiring university students to co-op terms, and (for the many college-graduates-in-training at GM St. Catharines) starting them off on a career. Congratulations!

[Chris Sturrock]

I don't think I could have said it any better than Karthik. Steve is a mentor, a role model, and an all around great guy. Without steve, I still wouldnt know the joys of FIRST. You really do deserve this honor.

Thank you, and Congratulations Mr. Rourke.

[Derek Bessette]

Congratulations Steve!

This is a well deserved award.

Three years ago Steve called me and asked if I'd be interested in mentoring a FIRST robotics team. That was the beginning of NiagaraFIRST.org, before it had a name. From that day forward Steve has been behind all of our teams success. He has challenged our group to be successfully in all parts of FIRST and enabled us to meet those challenges. He has been demanding and supportive. I have enjoyed the last three years and I hope to continue to help Steve grow FIRST in Niagara.

I've been there from the beginning and I can honestly say that without Steve there would be no NiagaraFIRST.org.

Steve, you should be very proud.

Thank you for giving me the chance to be a part of FIRST in Niagara.

[Travis Hoffman]

Steve:

You probably have to deal with Karthik more than anyone else around. For maintaining your sanity alone, you are worthy of this award 10 times over!

Congratulations, and thank you for everything you've done to expand FIRST in the Niagara region. You oversee some truly wonderful teams and people we here in Warren, OH USA are fortunate to call our friends.