Creating Engineers For The Future

As the demand for engineers continues to grow it is necessary to educate young students in technology and science related careers. This challenges educators to make engineering exciting and interesting. The following briefly details the implementation of a youth-development program that is committed to preparing the engineers of tomorrow. The non-profit organization For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) has created FIRST LEGO® League to encourage and equip students ages nine to fourteen to pursue careers in engineering and technology fields. Through this program, FIRST hopes to develop the qualities of teamwork, cooperation, creativity, problem solving, sportsmanship, confidence, communication, and leadership in middle-school youth across the nation. The only roadblock in the proliferation of the program is the apprehension of schools and civic organizations to commit to the activity considering their involvements in a variety of other activities. Since the start of this program at Ames Middle School, each of the seventeen participants has been successful in building the skills they need to become the engineers of the future. Participating on the FIRST LEGO League teams has helped these students develop problem solving skills, critical thinking skills, interpersonal skills, personal responsibility, time management, and creativity. Individuals have also gained a better understanding of engineering, as well as achieving new confidence levels, interests, and involvement in science and math. Many of these skills will be invaluable to the students regardless of what career path they take; however, the activities and experiences are enticing their appetites for engineering and technology, creating engineers for the future.