Brookfield, CT - On October 15, 2002, Brookfield High School (BHS) began an after school robotics program called IBYSE, “Innovations of Bright Young Scientists and Engineers.” It is partnered with FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Program (www.usfirst.org).  FIRST Robotics is an exciting, nationwide competition that teams professionals and young people to solve an engineering design problem in an intense and competitive way. The program is a life-changing, career-molding experience—and a lot of fun. It is estimated that in April 2003 the national competition will reach more than 20,000 students on over 800 teams in 24 competitions. The teams will come from Canada, Brazil, the United Kingdom, and almost every state with the United States. The competitions are high-tech spectator sporting events, the result of lots of focused brainstorming, real-world teamwork, dedicated mentoring, project timelines, and deadlines.

Some educators and members of the business community, including Dr. Glenn Friedman, President and Founder of GoFastRobots, has offered his services to the program.  However, a challenge is being extended to the community at large to assist the school funding the human and other resources to make the program a reality.  In addition, the team needs to raise an additional $10,000-$35,000 for registration, materials, shipping of the robot and travel by students and their chaperones to the regional and national competitions.

The program needs a host of volunteers from the community to help work with the students and provide technical assistance and/or supervision.  The volunteers could be parents, community members, retired teachers/engineers and non-engineering industry representatives.  FIRST recommends at least one electrician, a machinist and at least two engineers.  The Brookfield Team would especially welcome a professional corporate fundraiser who would like to donate his/her time to help them find the funds needed so the program can move forward.

People who wish to learn more about the Brookfield FIRST Robotics Team and its impact on the student community or how they can support or contribute financially to the program please contact: Ms. Susan Troupe, School-To-Career Coordinator, Brookfield High School at 203-775-5385.