Ford is spending a bunch of cash to inspire the next generation of robotics engineers that just might make its cars even safer one day. Called the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology Competition (FRC), the program aims to ignite passion for technology in participants aged from 14-18.
Teams develop technologies such as crash avoidance that could one day help make cars safer on the road, not to mention getting us one step closer to self driving cars. It’s no surprise that Ford is getting involved, with many of the technologies similar to ones deployed in the latest vehicles.
In addition to sponsoring the robotics program itself, Ford is funding two teams in the competition – the ‘Robo Cats’ and the ‘Home School Kids’. Support comes in a number of forms, such as hardware materials and tools. Ford engineers are also getting involved personally as mentors to robotics teams.
The For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology Competition will be held from the 12th to the 14th of March at the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre.
Robots may not destroy each other in a shower of sparks, but for those wanting to watch along from home the competition will be webcast. [Ford] [FRC]