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Unread 11-11-2002, 13:32
Unsung FIRST Hero
JVN JVN is offline
@JohnVNeun
AKA: John Vielkind-Neun
FRC #0148 (Robowranglers)
Team Role: Engineer
 
Join Date: May 2001
Rookie Year: 2000
Location: Greenville, Tx
Posts: 3,159
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Quote:
Originally posted by Jessica Boucher
It's simple: the competition is a breeding ground for engineers. You join, you go to an engineering school, you get a job in the engineering/technical field, you convince that company to sponsor, which recruits students to join. A beautiful virtuous cycle, until you step oustide it.

I hate to be harsh, but because of its inclusiveness, in its current form it is unable to handle any profession beyond its core. You don't truly see it until you've lived outside it.

Still watching,
Jessica B
The cycle does not always come full circle.
Some students join, learn about engineering/whatever, then move on to bigger and better things. While it's true the competition is designed to mimic the "real" engineering world, it has other benefits as well. I feel it inspires students to LEARN, not necesarily learn about engineering.

Frankly, I've been gung-ho about engineering since I got involved in the competition. These days, I find myself thinking long and hard about working in the realm of education. This competition can also be a breeding ground for TEACHERS.

As for living outside the cycle. Well... hopefully I won't have to anytime soon, but one never can tell when the "burn-out" occurs.

It's nice to know your still watching Jess. It really is.
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In the interest of full disclosure: I work for VEX Robotics a subsidiary of Innovation First International (IFI) Crown Supplier & Proud Supporter of FIRST
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