Mar 27 2013
Hughes Network Systems, LLC (HUGHES), the global leader in broadband satellite solutions and services, today announced it will support the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics Competition for the seventh consecutive year.
Hughes is sponsoring the DC Regional competition and will participate in judging the Chesapeake Regional competition. The DC Regional competition will be held March 28-30, 2013 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC. The Chesapeake Regional competition will be held April 11-13, 2013 at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, Maryland. Winners of the regional competitions will participate in the FIRST Championship being held April 24-27, 2013 at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, Missouri.
"Technology enables greater connectedness, powers the global economy and advances our standards of living," said Dr. Arunas Slekys , vice president of Corporate Marketing, Hughes. "FIRST Robotics programs give students the opportunity to see science, technology, engineering and mathematics in action, helping nurture a lifetime love for the sciences and helping develop our next generation of technology leaders."
The FIRST Robotics Competition gathers teams of high school students to build a complete robotics package. Coaches, or mentors, help the teams advance all aspects of development, including fundraising, brand development and programming a robot to complete specified tasks. Teams are judged for robot design, creativity, innovation, performance and teamwork throughout the development process as well as during the competition phases.
"I am proud to work for a company that supports the future growth of our technology and engineering leaders," said Allen Murray , senior director of the Defense and Intelligence Systems Division, Hughes, and judge at the Chesapeake Regional FIRST Robotics Competition. "Scientific advancements are foundational for our government and military to remain efficient and effective as technology shifts the means to mission success. I look forward to reviewing the projects and meeting with the teams at the Chesapeake Regional."