Ruth Jones, right, acting deputy director of NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility, chats with Diana Zorzon, left, a systems engineer in Marshall’s Spacecraft and Vehicle Systems Department, and Wayne Gamwell, an engineer in the System Requirements, Verification and Validation Branch of Marshall’s Materials and Processes Laboratory, during a networking session between speaker presentations. The seminar, titled “Enable the Mission: Be the Ideal Team Player,” was organized by Marshall's Organization and Leadership Development Office in the Office of Human Resources.

The NASA Educator Resource Center hosted the 2018 "Leading Within a Multigenerational Workforce" mentoring event. Opening remarks were by MSFC Deputy Director, Jody Singer, with a mentoring presentation from Mat Park. The key note presenter was UAH professor Kristin Scroggin.

Steve Shih, NASA associate administrator for Diversity & Equal Opportunity, addresses NASA team members during a Nov. 6 mentoring event at the agency's Marshall Space Flight Center. Shih discussed ways for team members on both sides of the mentoring equation to get the most out of the experience.

Retired NASA astronaut John Blaha talks to Swarmathon University Challenge students and their mentors during a Dine with an Astronaut event at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida on June 12, 2019. Students and mentors from some of the Swarmathon teams were at Kennedy to participate in a student/mentor panel, hear from speakers, get a behind-the-scenes tour of Kennedy Space Center, dine with an astronaut and receive awards. For the challenge, university students developed algorithms for robotic swarms that are robust and adaptable like the foraging strategies of ant colonies. The fourth and final Swarmathon challenge was a combined virtual and physical competition hosted by the University of New Mexico.

Retired NASA astronaut John Blaha talks to Swarmathon University Challenge students and their mentors during a Dine with an Astronaut event at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida on June 12, 2019. Students and mentors from some of the Swarmathon teams were at Kennedy to participate in a student/mentor panel, hear from speakers, get a behind-the-scenes tour of Kennedy Space Center, dine with an astronaut and receive awards. For the challenge, university students developed algorithms for robotic swarms that are robust and adaptable like the foraging strategies of ant colonies. The fourth and final Swarmathon challenge was a combined virtual and physical competition hosted by the University of New Mexico.

Students from Plantation, Fla., and their mentors prepare their team robot to compete in the  NASA/KSC FIRST Southeastern Regional event. FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) events are held nationwide, pitting the student-built robots against each other and the clock on a playing field.  Many teams are sponsored by corporations, such as Motorola seen on these students’ shirts, and academic institutions. There are 27 teams throughout the State of Florida who are competing.  KSC, which sponsors nine teams, has held the regional event for two years.

Students and their mentors prepare their team robot to compete in the NASA_KSC FIRST Southeastern Regional event.  FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) events are held nationwide, pitting the student-built robots against each other and the clock on a playing field.   Many teams are sponsored by corporations and academic institutions.  There are 27 teams throughout the State of Florida who are competing.  KSC, which sponsors nine teams, has held the regional event for two years.

Students from Plantation, Fla., and their mentors prepare their team robot to compete in the  NASA_KSC FIRST Southeastern Regional event. FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) events are held nationwide, pitting the student-built robots against each other and the clock on a playing field.  Many teams are sponsored by corporations, such as Motorola seen on these students’ shirts, and academic institutions. There are 27 teams throughout the State of Florida who are competing.  KSC, which sponsors nine teams, has held the regional event for two years.

Students and their mentors prepare their team robot to compete in the NASA/KSC FIRST Southeastern Regional event.  FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) events are held nationwide, pitting the student-built robots against each other and the clock on a playing field.   Many teams are sponsored by corporations and academic institutions.  There are 27 teams throughout the State of Florida who are competing.  KSC, which sponsors nine teams, has held the regional event for two years.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Florida Gov. Jeb Bush (right) kicks off the 2005 FIRST Robotics Regional Competition held at the University of Central Florida March 10-12. NASA and the University are co-hosts of the regional event. The competition stages short games played by remote-controlled robots, which are designed and built in six weeks by a team of high school students and a handful of engineers-mentors. The students control the robots on the playing field. NASA and the University of Central Florida are co-sponsors of the regional event. The competition stages short games played by remote-controlled robots, which are designed and built in six weeks by a team of high school students and a handful of engineers-mentors. The students control the robots on the playing field.

Getting ready for preliminary heats, students and mentors prepare their team robot to compete in the  NASA/KSC FIRST Southeastern Regional event. Team 342, shown here, is known as the “Burning Magnetos,” from Summerville High School in North, S. Carolina.   FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) events are held nationwide, pitting robots against each other and the clock on a playing field.   Many teams are sponsored by corporations and academic institutions. There are 27 teams throughout the State of Florida who are competing.   KSC, which sponsors nine teams, has held the regional event for two years.

Getting ready for preliminary heats, students and mentors prepare their team robot to compete in the  NASA_KSC FIRST Southeastern Regional event. Team 342, shown here, is known as the “Burning Magnetos,” from Summerville High School in North, S. Carolina.   FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) events are held nationwide, pitting robots against each other and the clock on a playing field.   Many teams are sponsored by corporations and academic institutions. There are 27 teams throughout the State of Florida who are competing.   KSC, which sponsors nine teams, has held the regional event for two years.

Attendees talk with representatives from a variety of business and government agencies during NASA's Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

Steve Owens, deputy program manager with a.i. solutions Inc., a contractor at Kennedy Space Center, speaks to attendees at NASA's Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. a.i. solutions signed a Mentor-Protégé Agreement with Red Canyon Software Inc. during the expo. a.i. solutions will be mentor to Red Canyon Software. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

Amber Allen, a program analyst in the Launch Services Program, speaks to attendees at NASA's Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

Attendees talk to vendors, such as the NASA Shared Services Center, during the agency's Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Bob Cabana, standing, shakes hands with Glenn Delgado, associate administrator, NASA Office of Small Business Programs, during the signing of a Mentor-Protégé Agreement on Oct. 23, 2018, at the NASA Business Opportunities Expo 2018 inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. Seated, in view from left, are Steve Owens, deputy program manager with a.i. solutions Inc., a contractor at Kennedy; and Barry Hamilton, CEO and Founder of Red Canyon Software Inc. A.I. Solutions will serve as the mentor to protégé Red Canyon Software. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

Joyce McDowell, small business specialist at Kennedy Space Center, welcomes attendees and vendors to NASA's Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

U.S. Rep. Bill Posey speaks to attendees during the NASA Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

John Murray, chief executive officer with the Canaveral Port Authority, welcomes attendees and vendors to the NASA Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Bob Cabana, standing, shakes hands with Barry Hamilton, CEO and Founder of Red Canyon Software Inc., during the signing of a Mentor-Protégé Agreement on Oct. 23, 2018, at the NASA Business Opportunities Expo 2018 inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. Seated, from left are Amber Allen, program analyst in the Launch Services Program; Steve Owens, deputy program manager with a.i. solutions Inc., a contractor at Kennedy; and Glenn Delgado, associate administrator, NASA Office of Small Business Programs. a.i. solutions will serve as the mentor to protégé Red Canyon Software. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

Barry Hamilton, CEO and founder of Red Canyon Software Inc., speaks to attendees at NASA's Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. Red Canyon Software signed a Mentor-Protégé Agreement with a.i. solutions during the expo. Red Canyon Software will be mentored by a.i. solutions. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

Attendees talk to representatives from Kennedy Space Center's Central Industry Assistance Office, during the agency's Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

An attendee talks to representatives from the NASA Office of Small Business Programs, during the agency's Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

Kennedy Space Center Director Bob Cabana welcomes attendees and vendors to the NASA Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

Glenn Delgado, associate administrator, NASA Office of Small Business Programs, speaks to attendees during the NASA Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

Colonel Thomas Ste. Marie, vice commander, 45th Space Wing, welcomes attendees and vendors to the NASA Business Opportunities Expo 2018, on Oct. 23, inside Cruise Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral in Florida. The 28th Business Opportunities Expo featured more than 200 businesses, large and small, and government exhibitors from throughout the Space Coast and the nation. The Business Opportunities Expo is facilitated by Kennedy's Small Business Programs Office and Prime Contractor Board, along with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing and Canaveral Port Authority. Vendors from a variety of product and service areas, such as computer technology, engineering services, communication equipment and services, and construction and safety products, to name a few, were at the expo. Representatives from the 45th Space Wing, Kennedy prime contractors, NASA and many more agencies and organizations were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Two student teams vie for points during a match at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. The annual event is hosting 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (right) talks to members of one of the teams at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. The annual event is hosting 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (center) joins team supporters at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. The annual event is hosting 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (right) talks to members of the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. The annual event is hosting 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A member of the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team watches a match during the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. The annual event is hosting 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (center) poses for a photo amid the members of the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team and the FIRST LEGO™ League at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. The annual event is hosting 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Florida Gov. Jeb Bush speaks to attendees at the luncheon held at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition at the University of Central Florida. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Center Director Jim Kennedy also spoke at the luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The KSC-sponsored “Pink” team poses for a photo with Florida Gov. Jeb Bush (second from left) during a break at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. The annual event is hosting 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During the luncheon held at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition at the University of Central Florida, Center Director Jim Kennedy praises the teamwork of the students involved. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Florida Gov. Jeb Bush also spoke at the luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Florida Gov. Jeb Bush talks to students competing with their robot at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. Bush and Center Director Jim Kennedy were among observers at the annual event that hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (center) poses for a photo amid the members of the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. The annual event is hosting 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During the luncheon held at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition at the University of Central Florida, Center Director Jim Kennedy praises the teamwork of the students involved. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Florida Gov. Jeb Bush also spoke at the luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy joins students on the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. The annual event is hosting 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Florida Gov. Jeb Bush (left) and Center Director Jim Kennedy enjoy a humorous break at the luncheon for the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition held at the University of Central Florida. Both are featured speakers. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Florida Gov. Jeb Bush (left) and Center Director Jim Kennedy attend the luncheon at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition held at the University of Central Florida. Both are featured speakers. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Florida Gov. Jeb Bush speaks to attendees at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition at the University of Central Florida. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Bush and Center Director Jim Kennedy also spoke at the luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy speaks to attendees at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition at the University of Central Florida. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Florida Gov. Jeb Bush also spoke at the luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Florida Gov. Jeb Bush speaks to attendees at the luncheon held at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition at the University of Central Florida. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Florida Gov. Jeb Bush also spoke at the luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (right, back to camera) talks to members of the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. The annual event is hosting 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy talks with a student team member at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. The annual event is hosting 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Student teams maneuver their robots on the University of Central Florida Arena floor during the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the University of Central Florida Arena, a local Central Florida team takes its turn during the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Student teams maneuver their robots on the University of Central Florida Arena floor during the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition in the University of Central Florida Arena, the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team applauds a win by the yellow-clad Central Florida team. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the University of Central Florida Arena, a local Central Florida team takes its turn during the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Lockheed Martin-sponsored student team works on its robot before a match in the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition in the University of Central Florida Arena. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition in the University of Central Florida Arena, the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team scores. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On the grounds of the University of Central Florida, the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team checks out its robot for the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Dressed for the part, a student on the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team waits during a break in the matches at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition in the University of Central Florida Arena. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the University of Central Florida, friends and families of the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team lend support from the stands during the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition. The KSC team is composed of Cocoa Beach and Rockledge High School students. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Robots of the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team and yellow-clad Central Florida team vie for points on the floor of the University of Central Florida Arena during the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This Central Florida team works on its robot before a match in the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition in the University of Central Florida Arena. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who both spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Supporters crowd the stands to cheer for their favorite teams during the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida Arena. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Friends and families root for the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team during the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition in the University of Central Florida Arena. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On the grounds of the University of Central Florida, the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team checks out its robot for the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the University of Central Florida Arena, the Boeing-sponsored ComBBat team of students maneuver their robots to collect and pass the balls as required in the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition in the University of Central Florida Arena, a judge names the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team winner of the match. The event hosted 41 teams from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy kicks off the 2005 FIRST Robotics Regional Competition held at the University of Central Florida March 10-12. NASA and the University of Central Florida are co-hosts of the regional event. The competition stages short games played by remote-controlled robots, which are designed and built in six weeks by a team of high school students and a handful of engineers-mentors. The students control the robots on the playing field.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Many of the 41 teams competing in the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition at the University of Central Florida are seen here preparing their robots for a match. KSC sponsored the “Pink” team of Cocoa Beach and Rockledge High School students. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Scott Kerr, director of Spaceport Services at KSC, speaks to students and attendees at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida Arena. KSC sponsored the “Pink” team of Cocoa Beach and Rockledge High School students. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Students on one of the 41 teams competing in the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition at the University of Central Florida are led in a “wave” in the stands. KSC sponsored the “Pink” team of Cocoa Beach and Rockledge High School students. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Many of the 41 teams competing in the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition at the University of Central Florida are seen here preparing their robots for a match. KSC sponsored the “Pink” team of Cocoa Beach and Rockledge High School students. Among observers at the annual event were Center Director Jim Kennedy and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who spoke at the event luncheon. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During the 2005 FIRST Robotics Regional Competition held at the University of Central Florida March 10-12, Center Director Jim Kennedy (left) greets fellow NASA employees, referee Maggi Dutczak and Laurel Lichtenberger, Planning Committee chair for the competition. NASA and the University of Central Florida are co-hosts of the regional event. The competition stages short games played by remote-controlled robots, which are designed and built in six weeks by a team of high school students and a handful of engineers-mentors. The students control the robots on the playing field.

Kennedy Space Center Deputy Director Janet Petro speaks to students during a Women in STEM mentoring breakfast inside the Debus Conference Center at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. STEM is science, technology, engineering and math. The special event gave students competing in NASA's 8th Annual Robotic Mining Competition the chance to learn from female NASA scientists, engineers and professionals about their careers and the paths they took to working at Kennedy. The Robotic Mining Competition is a NASA Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate project designed to encourage students in STEM fields. The project provides a competitive environment to foster innovative ideas and solutions that could be used on NASA's Journey to Mars.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A closeup of the team mascot of the Central Florida robotic team “Voltage” at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. Among the 41 teams competing from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States is the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The team mascot of the Central Florida robotic team “Voltage” greets Center Director Jim Kennedy during a match at the 2004 Florida Regional FIRST competition, held at the University of Central Florida. Among the 41 teams competing from Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and the United States is the KSC-sponsored “Pink” team. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations.

Kennedy Space Center Deputy Director Janet Petro speaks to students during a Women in STEM mentoring breakfast inside the Debus Conference Center at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. STEM is science, technology, engineering and math. The special event gave students competing in NASA's 8th Annual Robotic Mining Competition the chance to learn from female NASA scientists, engineers and professionals about their careers and the paths they took to working at Kennedy. The Robotic Mining Competition is a NASA Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate project designed to encourage students in STEM fields. The project provides a competitive environment to foster innovative ideas and solutions that could be used on NASA's Journey to Mars.

At the award ceremony for the 1999 FIRST Southeastern Regional robotic competition held at KSC, the Space Coast FIRST Team walks past the greeting line. In the middle, shaking hands with the team, are KSC's Director of Engineering Development Sterling Walker (left) and Center Director Roy Bridges (right). The Space Coast Team included Rockledge, Cocoa Beach and Merritt Island High Schools. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations. The regional event comprised 27 teams. Along with the championship award, which went to high school teams from Miami and San German, Puerto Rico, 15 other awards were presented

At the award ceremony for the 1999 FIRST Southeastern Regional robotic competition held at KSC, the winning teams from Miami and San German, Puerto Rico, parade with their trophies and championship flag by the line of judges and officials. In the middle of the line is Center Director Roy Bridges. At the far right is Deputy Director for Launch and Payload Processing Loren Shriver, who served as one of the judges for the competition. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations. The regional event comprised 27 teams. Along with the championship award, 15 other awards were presented

At the start of the award ceremony at the 1999 FIRST Southeastern Regional robotic competition held at KSC, judges, including Deputy Director for Launch and Payload Processing Loren Shriver (left), give "high fives" to a winning team from Minnesota as they enter. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations. The regional event comprised 27 teams. Along with the championship award, which went to high school teams in Miami and San German, Puerto Rico, 15 other awards were presented

At the award ceremony for the 1999 FIRST Southeastern Regional robotic competition held at KSC, one of the winning teams, from Ocoee, Fla., is greeted by (left to right) astronaut David Brown, Deputy Director for Launch and Payload Processing Loren Shriver, Center Director Roy Bridges, and two unidentified judges. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations. The regional event comprised 27 teams. Along with the championship award, which went to high school teams from Miami and San German, Puerto Rico, 15 other awards were presented

At the 1999 FIRST Southeastern Regional robotic competition held at KSC, judges compare notes about a match. Serving as judges are Deputy Director for Launch and Payload Processing Loren Shriver (above right) and former KSC Director of Shuttle Processing Robert Sieck (below, with back to camera). FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations. The regional event comprised 27 teams. Along with the championship award, which went to high school teams in Miami and San German, Puerto Rico, 15 other awards were presented

Kicking off the award ceremony at the 1999 FIRST Southeastern Regional robotic competition held at KSC are David Brown, Executive Director of FIRST; Woody Flowers, national advisor for FIRST; and astronaut David Brown. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations. The regional event comprised 27 teams. Along with the championship award, which went to high school teams in Miami and San German, Puerto Rico, 15 other awards were presented

At the award ceremony for the 1999 FIRST Southeastern Regional robotic competition held at KSC, the winning teams, from Miami and San German, Puerto Rico, jump for joy and wave a flag. In the foreground, at left, are Woody Flowers, national advisor to FIRST, and at right, Roy Bridges, KSC director. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, that sponsors the event pitting gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations. The regional event comprised 27 teams. Along with the championship award, 15 other awards were presented

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Bill Parsons (right) talks with students of another NASA-sponsored robotic team during the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. Next to Parsons is Lisa Malone, director of External Relations at Kennedy Space Center. The students of team 1592, the Bionic Tigers, represent the cosponsors Analex Corporation and NASA Launch Services Program and Cocoa High School in Central Florida. Participating since 2005, this is the first year for this team to receive NASA financial support. They were mentored by the Pink Team. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Jonette Stecklein (in the blue shirt), a flight systems engineer from Johnson Space Center in Houston, talks to students during a Women in STEM mentoring breakfast inside the Debus Conference Center at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. STEM is science, technology, engineering and math. The special event gave students competing in NASA's 8th Annual Robotic Mining Competition the chance to learn from female NASA scientists, engineers and professionals about their careers and the paths they took to working at Kennedy. The Robotic Mining Competition is a NASA Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate project designed to encourage students in STEM fields. The project provides a competitive environment to foster innovative ideas and solutions that could be used on NASA's Journey to Mars.

NASA engineers Scott Olive (left) and Bo Clarke answer questions during the 2007 FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition regional kickoff event held Saturday, Jan. 6, 2007, at StenniSphere, the visitor center at NASA Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Miss. The SSC employees and FIRST Robotics volunteer mentors are standing near a mock-up of the playing field for the FIRST Robotics' 2007 `Rack n' Roll' challenge. Roughly 300 students and adult volunteers - representing 29 high schools from four states - attended the kickoff to hear the rules of `Rack n' Roll.' The teams will spend the next six weeks building and programming robots from parts kits they received Saturday, then battle their creations at regional spring competitions in New Orleans, Houston, Atlanta and other cities around the nation. FIRST aims to inspire students in the pursuit of engineering and technology studies and careers.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Student teams representing Florida and several out-of-state areas display and work on their robots for the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Student competitors listen to game rules before the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During the 2006 FIRST Robotics Regional Competition held March 9-11 at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, the "Pink Team," whose robot is named Roccobot and is co-sponsored by NASA KSC, stands for recognition. The FIRST Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions. FIRST, which is based on "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology," redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. NASA and the University of Central Florida are co-sponsors of the regional event, which this year included more than 50 teams. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During opening ceremonies of the 2006 FIRST Robotics Regional Competition held March 9-11 at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Kennedy Space Center Director Jim Kennedy talks to the participants. The FIRST Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions. FIRST, which is based on "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology," redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. NASA and the University of Central Florida are co-sponsors of the regional event, which this year included more than 50 teams. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Team Voltage participates in the regional FIRST robotics competition at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Fla. The team is made up of students from Melbourne High School in Florida. More than 50 high school teams took part in the competition called 'For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology,' or FIRST, in hopes of advancing to the national robotics championship. FIRST, founded in 1989, is a non-profit organization that designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge and life skills while motivating young people to pursue academic opportunities. The robotics competition challenges teams of high school students and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard kit of parts and a common set of rules. NASA is the largest sponsor of the international program. Kennedy Space Center is a sponsor of the regional event. Photo credit: NASA_Jim Grossmann

Watching the 1999 FIRST Southeastern Regional robotic competition held at KSC are (left to right) FIRST representative Vince Wilczynski and Executive Director of FIRST David Brown, Center Director Roy Bridges, former KSC Director of Shuttle Processing Robert Sieck (pointing), and astronaut David Brown. FIRST is a nonprofit organization, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology. The competition comprised 27 teams, pairing high school students with engineer mentors and corporations. Brown and Sieck served as judges for the event that pits gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. Powered by 12-volt batteries and operated by remote control, the robotic gladiators spend two minutes each trying to grab, claw and hoist large, satin pillows onto their machines. Teams play defense by taking away competitors' pillows and generally harassing opposing machines. The FIRST robotics competition is designed to provide students with a hands-on, inside look at engineering and other professional careers

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The audience anxiously awaits a referee's decision during competition of student teams in the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Florida's Lt. Governor Toni Jennings speaks during the V.I.P. luncheon at the 2006 FIRST Robotics Regional Competition held March 9-11 at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. The FIRST Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions. FIRST, which is based on "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology," redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. NASA and the University of Central Florida are co-sponsors of the regional event, which this year included more than 50 teams. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During opening ceremonies of the 2006 FIRST Robotics Regional Competition held March 9-11 at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida Governor Jeb Bush poses with recipients of the Governor's Award trophy. The FIRST Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions. FIRST, which is based on "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology," redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. NASA and the University of Central Florida are co-sponsors of the regional event, which this year included more than 50 teams. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The NASA/Kennedy Space Center-sponsored student team (in pink wigs) is congratulated by the mentors and support staff of the 2003 Southeastern Regional FIRST Robotic Competition. The competition is being held at the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando, March 20-23. The team won awards for Regional Finalist 2, GM Industrial Design and the Imagery Award. Forty student teams from around the country are participating in the event that pits team-built gladiator robots against each other in an athletic-style competition. The teams are sponsored by NASA/Kennedy Space Center, The Boeing Company/Brevard Community College, and Lockheed Martin Space Operations/Mission Systems for the nonprofit organization For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, known as FIRST. The vision of FIRST is to inspire in the youth of our nation an appreciation of science and technology and an understanding that mastering these disciplines can enrich the lives of all mankind.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During the 2005 FIRST Robotics Regional Competition held at the University of Central Florida March 10-12, Center Director Jim Kennedy (left) meets members of the NASA-sponsored Space Coast FIRST Robotics Team, known as the Pink Team. The Pink Team took first place in the competition as part of a three-team alliance and advances to the Championship in Atlanta in April. The Pink Team comprises students from Rockledge High School and Cocoa Beach Junior_Senior High School. NASA and the University of Central Florida are co-hosts of the regional event. The competition stages short games played by remote-controlled robots, which are designed and built in six weeks by a team of high school students and a handful of engineers-mentors. The students control the robots on the playing field.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Kissimmee, Fla., team (right) prepares its robot for competition with a New Jersey team (center) during the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Bill Parsons (left) greets the Lt. Governor of the State of Florida, Jeff Kottkamp, at the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

FIRST LEGO League participants listen to Aerospace Education Specialist Chris Copelan explain the playing field for 'Nano Quest' during a recent FLL kickoff event at StenniSphere, the visitor center at NASA Stennis Space Center. The kickoff began the 2006 FLL competition season. Eighty-five teachers, mentors, parents and 9- to 14-year-old students from southern and central Mississippi came to SSC to hear the rules for Nano Quest. The challenge requires teams to spend eight weeks building and programming robots from LEGO Mindstorms kits. They'll battle their creations in local and regional competitions. The Dec. 2 competition at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College will involve about 200 students. FIRST LEGO League, considered the 'little league' of the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition, partners FIRST and the LEGO Group. Competitions aim to inspire and celebrate science and technology using real-world context and hands-on experimentation, and to promote the principles of team play and gracious professionalism. Because NASA advocates robotics and science-technology education, the agency and SSC support FIRST by providing team coaches, mentors and training, as well as competition event judges, referees, audio-visual and other volunteer staff personnel. Two of Mississippi's NASA Explorer Schools, Bay-Waveland Middle and Hattiesburg's Lillie Burney Elementary, were in attendance. The following schools were also represented: Ocean Springs Middle, Pearl Upper Elementary, Long Beach Middle, Jackson Preparatory Academy, North Woolmarket Middle, D'Iberville Middle, West Wortham Middle, Picayune's Roseland Park Baptist Academy and Nicholson Elementary, as well as two home-school groups from McComb and Brandon. Gulfport and Picayune Memorial-Pearl River high schools' FIRST Robotics teams conducted robotics demonstrations for the FLL crowd.

ORLANDO, Fla. -- NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Bob Cabana talks with members of Team 3132, called "Thunder Down Under," which is participating in the regional FIRST robotics competition at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Fla. The team is made up of students from Sydney, Australia. More than 60 high school teams took part in the competition called "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology," or FIRST, in hopes of advancing to the national robotics championship. This year, the competition resembled a basketball game and was dubbed "Rebound Rumble." The game measured the effectiveness of each robot, the power of collaboration and the determination of the teams. FIRST, founded in 1989, is a non-profit organization that designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge and life skills while motivating young people to pursue academic opportunities. The robotics competition challenges teams of high school students and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard kit of parts and a common set of rules. NASA is the largest sponsor of the international program. Kennedy Space Center is a sponsor of the regional event. For more information on Kennedy's education events and initiatives, go to http://www.nasa.gov/offices/education/centers/kennedy/home/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

ORLANDO, Fla. -- High school teams compete in the regional FIRST robotics competition at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Fla. More than 60 teams took part in the competition called "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology," or FIRST, in hopes of advancing to the national robotics championship. This year, the competition resembled a basketball game and was dubbed "Rebound Rumble." The game measured the effectiveness of each robot, the power of collaboration and the determination of the teams. FIRST, founded in 1989, is a non-profit organization that designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge and life skills while motivating young people to pursue academic opportunities. The robotics competition challenges teams of high school students and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard kit of parts and a common set of rules. NASA is the largest sponsor of the international program. Kennedy Space Center is a sponsor of the regional event. For more information on Kennedy's education events and initiatives, go to http://www.nasa.gov/offices/education/centers/kennedy/home/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett