pic: New pneumatic manifold

[DonRotolo]

Originally Posted by Al Skierkiewicz

Adam,
I can virtually guarantee that First would be willing to add them to the KOP if the company were to want to make a charitable contribution.

And one might rightfully ask "now why would they want to do that?"

Several reasons.
First, they can deduct the gift on their corporate taxes. This is not trivial.
Second, they get their name out there, to tens of thousands of practicing and future engineers. Engineers who buy stuff from companies for the people they work for.*
Third, they get a good opportunity to re-energize their engineering staff**
Fourth, they get to feel good about it, too.

* I am sure that many mentors and past FIRSTers are in roles where they specify parts for production. People are much more likely to specify products they are familiar with, or at least products from companies they are familiar with. Having their name out there is a subtle form of advertising, one which could pay dividends far above the expenditure. Even at a manufacturing cost of $5 each (which would be excessive) the whole cost is under $10k, take in the tax deduction (about 30%) and it's really no all that much.

** Engineers have a routine at work, and the routine gets, well, routine. This has a negative impact on innovation and creativity. Getting engineers - young and old - out into a different world like FRC really breaks up this routine, and mentors come back very energized after 6 short weeks. There is a measurable increase in productivity and innovation for a few months after the build season.