The Politics of FIRST

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Originally Posted by Justin

Some examples are unconfirmed reports of people actively seeking the Woodie Flowers Nomination (this was an inevitable by-product of the new voting system), as well as FIRST offering favors to members of the community..."Do thing X for us and we'll try to do thing Y for you." I'm just curious if people have any opinions on this or see any other ramifications.

I read this post and wanted to respond but just couldn't put it into words until now. So here goes...
Yes there is always likely to be some "political" goings on in any organization. People need to feel important and when you are involved in a great organization that is even better. Many mentors actively seek the WFA because it is so special an award. The fact that it is a nomination is reviewed by independent judges from industry makes it special. The fact that it honors a great educator, Woodie, makes it even more special. The fact that students make the nomination makes it the most special. Of course, any mentor would love to have this award, I would love to have this award. Yet every year a deserving individual receives this award makes it even more special. To be greeted by Dave Verbrugge, Andy Baker, Bill Beatty and all of the others when receiving the award, is the ultimate acceptance in an organization of great people.
As to FIRST offering favors, I think you misunderstand workings of an organization of largely volunteers. I am amazed each year that FIRST grows, that they can pull off what they do. Have you looked at the turn around at FIRST headquarters? Those folks are working so hard to make this whole thing work that they get burned out. Take a close look at what goes into your regional Look at all the folks making the weekend a success for the competitors. A committee works for nearly a year, picking venues, working out setups, video and sound, judges (40 or 50 for each competition) getting MCs scorers and pit admin. Have you seen what goes into setting up and tear down/pack on a field? It takes about ten people just to roll up the carpet sections and get them carried out. Of course FIRST must ask for help and trust goes with that help. So, when this next comes up in conversation, think first of all those who set up kickoffs, assemble your KOP, answer endless questions, give up family commitments, work long hours and weekends, give up vacations, sit inside on beautiful spring days in Atlanta or Florida, or inspect robots till there legs drop off, sit by doors in cold northern regionals or run post season events, or just help get everyone a hotel room.
"If it ain't broken, don't fix it."