Windsor Prepares for the 10th Annual FIRST Robotics Competition

FIRST Canada and Windsor-Essex FIRST Robotics are celebrating a significant milestone: the 10th anniversary of the Windsor-Essex Great Lakes Event. This event, which highlights the importance of STEM education, innovation, and workforce development in the region, will take place on March 28-29 at the St. Denis Athletic & Community Centre. Open to the public and free of charge, the event will feature 29 high school teams from across Ontario competing in a challenge called REEFSCAPE, sponsored by Haas.

Larry Koscielski, Vice President of Process & Technology Development at CenterLine (Windsor) Ltd. and Chair of Windsor-Essex FIRST Robotics, emphasized that the event has grown beyond a mere competition, evolving into a significant launchpad for future engineers, skilled trades professionals, programmers, and entrepreneurs. He noted that many alumni from this program are now employed by leading local companies, including CenterLine.

Since the event's inception in Windsor in 2014, the FIRST community in the area has thrived due to the commitment of local academic institutions, educators, mentors, industry leaders, businesses, and economic development organizations. This year, Rocket Innovation Studio joins as a Gold Sponsor alongside long-time partners such as St. Clair College, the University of Windsor, and CenterLine, the Platinum Sponsor. These partnerships allow students to gain hands-on learning experiences, access scholarships, and create pathways to careers in STEM fields.

Jasen Sams, Vice President at Rocket Innovation Studio, highlighted the significance of FIRST Robotics as a perfect training ground for the innovators of tomorrow. He remarked that the skills gained through FIRST, such as problem-solving, teamwork, and technical expertise, are essential for the future of industries like technology.

Yvonne Pilon, President & CEO of WETechAlliance, reflected on the event's launch and its transformative potential for the region's talent pipeline. She expressed pride in its evolution over the years, noting that it has successfully connected students with scholarships, career opportunities, and entrepreneurial ventures, showcasing the program's impactful role in the community.

The influence of FIRST reaches far beyond the immediate competition. Many alumni have integrated into local industries, using their technical skills and problem-solving abilities in fields from automotive to emerging technologies. Some, like Scott Fairley, who founded Optimotive, have even started their own businesses. Fairley credits FIRST with playing a pivotal role in shaping his career, stating that the hands-on experience and teamwork he acquired during his time as a student have laid the groundwork for his company's operations and hiring practices.

In addition to the competition, attendees can enjoy interactive experiences, including performances by Stilt Guy, a DJ, a photo booth, and limited-edition event stickers designed by local artist Jeff Denomme. The event promises to be not just a showcase of robotics but also a family-friendly environment brimming with community spirit and engagement.

The Windsor-Essex Great Lakes Event will take place at the St. Denis Athletic & Community Centre (2555 College Ave, Windsor, ON) on Friday, March 28, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Saturday, March 29, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Parking will be available at the nearby Human Kinetics and Stadium lots, and a complete list of participating teams will be accessible to attendees.