"We are very excited to be a strong supporter of the FIRST Robotics Competition since 2014," said Kevin Hess, Mouser senior vice president of marketing. "The organization gives students a platform for innovation, a chance to learn valuable engineering skills, and an opportunity to build character and self-esteem."
For many years, Mouser has been a major supporter of FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), a student-serving nonprofit advancing science, technology, engineering, and math. Mouser sponsors FIRST virtual and live competitions at the local, regional, state and international levels. Joining Mouser in the sponsorship is manufacturer partner Analog Devices.
The global authorized distributor sponsored the Kit of Parts (KoP) for the 2020–2021 season, and will be a major presenting co-sponsor of the FIRST in Texas — Texas Cup, planned for June 15–17 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. Mouser also supports FIRST teams in its community, providing grants for local high school teams.
Each FIRST Robotics Competition team receives access to a KoP system — including motors, batteries, a control system, a PC and a mix of automation components — with no instructions. Teams have limited time to transform various parts into working robots designed to perform specific tasks.
Mouser will continue its exclusive sponsorship of the Hall of Fame at FIRST Championships, which is expected to resume in 2022 with live events in Houston and Detroit.