[Derek Bessette]

Congrats Ian!!

It's nice to see that your amazing and commitment doesn't go unrecognized.

I also met Ian for the first time in 2002 during a seminar he was putting on for the 2003 season. I don't remember all the questions I had asked him that day, but I know he had an answer for all of them. The seminars that he put on that year (which are available on the GTR website) helped Simbotics have a successfully rookie season. We were so impressed that we decided to hire him for a co-op term here at GM in St. Catharines. I had the opportunity to work with Ian during the 2004 season as he and Karthik led our team to a record breaking year.

Ian is a great example for students and mentors to follow. His design skills speak for themselves, but what really puts Ian head and shoulders above so many (other than his height) is his effort in everything he does. Whether it be helping out other teams, working on a design, or just trying to be the best person he can.

Ian works very hard to represent FIRST and it's values.

Congratulations and good luck!!

I see a Woodie Flower's Award in your future. Especially if you find yourself a team and stick with them for a while!!! I nominate 1114!