In the fall of 1996, after helping to create a technology program at Mount Olive High School, we came across an article in an educational magazine touting this new robotics program FIRST. We contacted FIRST by phone as we were looking for a unique technology competition to boost Tech Education.

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After recieving and watching a video sent to us from First, we immediately sought out the information to get involved. We were particularly inspired by the enthusiam of the students at the national tournament that had just occured.

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We reached out to BASF, as they had a office in the nearby trade center to see if they would be our first sponsor. they replied and became our first sponsor.