On March 6-8 there are two major regional For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology robotics events scheduled at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. High School teams from all over Minnesota and beyond will participate in these events.

Four teams from Duluth will be there plus ones from Two Harbors, Hermantown, Hibbing, Bemidji and the list goes on. Over 100 teams will be in our city to compete and they are bringing their mentors, friends and families. The regionals are expected to bring in 3-4 million dollars to Duluth and the surrounding area. The Double DECCer (that’s what they’re calling it) is gaining world wide attention. We have the biggest robotics event in the country. Let’s keep it!

Each of these regionals rely heavily on the generous volunteers who sign up to donate their time each year and make these competitions possible. In order for everything to run smoothly, and have a successful competition, more volunteers are needed!! Right now, Duluth is at risk of losing one of our regionals if we do not get the volunteer and sponsor support. These are nonprofit events for kids that promote STEM education. We will need a Grandmas type volunteer effort as it takes about 100 volunteers to run each event. You do not need technical experience to volunteer. No prior or technical experience is necessary.*

Here are the volunteer positions that need to be filled:

Field Reset (9 needed, 6 for Lake Superior Regional, 3 for Northern Lights)
Safety Advisors to work with UL (3)
Team Queuing (4-6)
Practice Fields (6-8)
Pit Administration Support (2)
Replacement Parts Help (3)
Safety Glasses (20)

*F.I.R.S.T. will train in all volunteers, especially if you have been assigned a more technical task.

Volunteering at a regional is not only worth your time, it’s really fun! This is a great event for kids and the kids love being a part of it. Their excitement is infectious. You will love being part of this event!

To inquire about participating in these upcoming regionals or to get yourself registered, contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Laurie Shimizu, at volunteer @ mnfirst.org. More info at daredevils2512.org.

Thank you for your support!