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Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
This year more than ever, I was inspired by the teams who have taken their sponsors, and have turned them into lifetime partners. GM teams like 67, 1114, Motorola teams like WildStang, BAE Systems teams, NASA teams like Pink, the Robonauts, and the Cheesy Poofs, Johnson and Johnson teams like 75 and 88, 25 as the shining example of a BMS team, 148 and IFI, and specifically, Beatty International and 71. 217 from Ford. Delphi...etc..
These are teams who have unearthed something that I think FIRST never imagined would happen at such a large scale. Sure these companies are strong supporters of FIRST, but until you look at every single individual team, you don't realize how dynamic of a program FIRST and FRC can be. I see teams like 217, 67, and 111 and think, "Man I can't wait until we're that strong with our sponsors." Its just another special factor in the equation which makes these teams "elite." Something so unique to marvel at that you just can't help but want to be more like them. Its not just about any money the teams receive, machining help they get, its about the mentors they provide and the opportunities they bring to each and every student on the team. Now, I know there are other companies and teams out there who share this type of bond with their sponsors and mentors, but I am just citing out a few major programs.
Its something that's awe inspiring and so powerful in this program that truly embodies what FIRST set out to do: Captains of industry meet the future of industry. People like Paul Copioli, Bill Beatty, JVN; all engineers who work for a greater cause because of this program, and have probably found their second career: teaching.
MORT too has created somewhat of the same relationship in the past. BASF, Givaudan, BAE Systems, and Siemens have all provided us with whatever resource we've needed, monetary support, mentors, and most importantly, job opportunities. Yet, we're still building our foundation with these companies in hopes of reaching the level that 254 and 67 have reached. Its a level far beyond what any of us can expect, and its a level that's almost dauntingly difficult to achieve. These teams bring me hope, inspiration, and a sense of determination, and I thank you all for that. A message that I've learned from these teams in the past 3 years: Keep growing stronger with your sponsors, and soon they will become partners for life.
Sorry for the long post, but its something I've respected and admired about these teams and programs and its about time that credit is given where it is due.
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My posts and opinions do not necessarily reflect those of my affiliated team.
['16-'xx]: Mentor FRC 2170 | ['11-'13]: Co-Founder/Mentor FRC 3929 | ['06-'10]: Student FRC 11 - MORT | ['08-'12]: Founder - EWCP (OG)
Last edited by Akash Rastogi : 03-05-2009 at 21:27.
Reason: 217= Ford, and I forgot to mention Delphi XD
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