WHO ARE WE?
We are the Eastlake High School robotics team located in Sammamish, WA. Since 2004 we have given students a place to pursue their interests in science, technology, and engineering. All thanks to our awesome mentors and sponsors!
We build a 120 lb. competition robot in just 6 weeks. Our meetings start in the fall, with the official season for the FIRST Robotics competition starting in January and going through April. No previous experience is necessary to join. We welcome new members!
If you are interested in joining or have any questions please contact us!
Check our calendar for meetings and events!
MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.
WHAT IS FIRST?
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is an international youth organization that operates the FIRST Robotics Competition, FIRST LEGO League, FIRST Lego League Jr., FIRST LEGO League Jr. Discovery Edition, and FIRST Tech Challenge competitions. It was founded by Dean Kamen and Woodie Flowers in 1989 to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. FIRST is “More Than Robots.” FIRST participation is proven to encourage students to pursue education and careers in STEM-related fields, inspire them to become leaders and innovators, and enhance their work and life skills.
WHAT IS THE FIRST ROBOTICS COMPETITION?
Combining the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology, we call the FIRST Robotics Competition the ultimate Sport for the Mind. Under strict rules, limited resources, and an intense six-week time limit, teams of students are challenged to raise funds, design a team “brand,” hone teamwork skills, and build and program industrial-size robots to play a difficult field game against like-minded competitors. It’s as close to real-world engineering as a student can get. Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team. Each season ends with an exciting FIRST Championship.
VALUES OF FIRST
Gracious Professionalism
Dr. Woodie Flowers MIT Professor and FIRST National Advisor coined the term “Gracious Professionalism”Gracious Professionalism is part of the ethos of FIRST. It is a way of doing things that encourages high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects individuals and the community.With Gracious Professionalism, fierce competition and mutual gain are not separate notions. Gracious professionals learn and compete like crazy, but treat one another with respect and kindness in the process. They avoid treating anyone like losers. No chest thumping tough talk, but no sticky-sweet platitudes either. Knowledge, competition, and empathy are comfortably blended. In the long run, Gracious Professionalism is part of pursuing a meaningful life. One can add to society and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing one has acted with integrity and sensitivity.
Coopertition
Coopertition produces innovation. At FIRST, Coopertition is displaying unqualified kindness and respect in the face of fierce competition. Coopertition is founded on the concept and a philosophy that teams can and should help and cooperate with each other even as they compete. Coopertition involves learning from teammates. It is teaching teammates. It is learning from Mentors. And it is managing and being managed. Coopertition means competing always, but assisting and enabling others when you can.