Latest news with #FIRST
Fast Company
27-05-2025
- Business
- Fast Company
Why your workplace needs more 'Gracious Professionalism'
When most people think about innovation, they imagine sprints, whiteboards, late nights, and the relentless pace of deadlines. What's often missing from this image are genuine acts of kindness and empathy—but perhaps they should be at the center. As the leader of FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), a global youth STEM education community, I've seen firsthand the power of Gracious Professionalism. This ethos is about more than producing quality work: It's about valuing others—teammates, competitors, and the broader community—and showing respect at every turn. Gracious Professionalism empowers everyone, regardless of role or tenure, to lift others up and help create a culture rooted in acceptance and shared success. While the term may sound gentle for the high-stakes world of science and technology, its influence is anything but passive. Gracious Professionalism demonstrates that even in a competitive corporate landscape, it is possible—and powerful—to lead with trust, respect, and a spirit of cooperation. Companies that embrace this mindset can gain a real edge in innovation, talent recruitment, and long-term success. The origin of Gracious Professionalism Gracious Professionalism was the vision of the late and much beloved Pappalardo Professor Emeritus of Mechanical Engineering at MIT, Woodie Flowers, PhD. He was also a distinguished advisor to FIRST and longtime collaborator and friend of Dean Kamen, FIRST's founder and a lifelong inventor. Woodie believed deeply in the power of blending competition with kindness. His philosophy emphasizes striving for excellence while valuing others and treating everyone—teammates, competitors, and community members—with respect. Today, Woodie's legacy lives on through millions of FIRST participants and alumni. The mindset appears in small but powerful moments within our competitive youth robotics events, like when a team lends an opponent a spare part for a malfunctioning robot, or when a student pauses to encourage a teammate who is experiencing self-doubt. These everyday acts of support and empathy keep Woodie's profound vision very much alive. From robotics to the real world As demand grows for 'durable skills' like collaboration, resilience, and ethical leadership, Gracious Professionalism is more relevant than ever in the workplace. Ruhi Lankalapalli first encountered Gracious Professionalism as a FIRST participant. Today, as a manufacturing engineer at Medtronic, she credits this ethos with shaping her approach to work and leadership. 'Gracious Professionalism has shaped how I work and lead—it has helped me build trust quickly, collaborate effectively, and stay focused on long-term success. I've taken on many projects, spanning several teams at Medtronic, and maintaining the values of Gracious Professionalism has been crucial to building strong partnerships and finding common ground,' she said. 'When I stepped into my current role in Medtronic, I was invited to join a major project within just two months. Though I was new to the position, I stood out because of how I collaborated with the team and embraced new challenges, which set me apart through the ways I support others and contribute to a stronger team culture.' It shapes corporate culture The impact of Gracious Professionalism extends beyond individual growth. It builds organizational cultures rooted in trust, teamwork, continuous learning, and ethical decision making. The result? Greater innovation, stronger employee engagement, and long-term business success. Qualcomm, the global wireless technology company, is a longtime supporter of FIRST and has hired many program alumni who practice Gracious Professionalism in their everyday roles. 'Our employees who grew up participating in FIRST are known within Qualcomm for their ability to handle challenges with a positive attitude and a collaborative approach,' said Angela Baker, vice president, corporate responsibility, and chief sustainability officer at Qualcomm. 'Their ability to balance competition with respect and kindness is consistent with our value of 'winning together.' Their dedication to continuous improvement accelerates their own career growth while also contributing to our company's long-term innovation pipeline and their work ethic helps us deliver results.' The impact of Gracious Professionalism Gracious Professionalism is not just about being kind: It is a strategic advantage. Employees who practice this ethos develop essential skills like collaboration, empathy, and creative problem-solving, making them invaluable contributors and culture-builders. In a world where agility and integrity are essential for businesses' success, Gracious Professionalism proves that the most powerful path forward is one built on respect, excellence, and a collective drive to grow—together.
Korea Herald
16-05-2025
- Science
- Korea Herald
i2Cool's Radiative Cooling Technology to Drive Global Sustainability in UN-Backed FIRST Programme
HONG KONG, May 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- i2Cool is honored to participate in the Fostering Innovation for Resilience and Sustainable Transformation (FIRST) Programme, a global initiative led by City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) and officially endorsed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Selected as one of only 30 projects worldwide recognized under the United Nations International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development (2024–2033), this project aims to advance sustainability through innovation and collaboration. The FIRST Programme has emerged in response to urgent global challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, water scarcity, and the need for clean energy transitions. With a strong focus on innovation and international collaboration, the programme aims to accelerate progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Led by CityUHK in collaboration with UNESCO, i2Cool, and a diverse network of international partners, the initiative represents a concerted global effort to build a sustainable future through science, technology, and cooperative action. Mr. Tse Chin-wan, BBS, JP, Secretary for Environment and Ecology of the HKSAR said "With the endorsement of the UNESCO, the FIRST Programme sets a powerful example of how collaboration and innovation can create a more sustainable future for all. I am pleased to support this initiative and look forward to seeing its positive impact on our community and beyond." Professor Freddy Boey, President and University Distinguished Professor of CityUHK, said, "I am delighted that CityUHK will lead this crucial initiative to address sustainability challenges by developing affordable innovations in collaboration with our global partners. The Programme reflects CityUHK's commitment to Innovating into the Future and offering tangible solutions to global challenges." Ir Prof. Edwin Tso Chi-yan, co-founder of i2Cool and Associate Dean (Internationalisation and Outreach) at CityUHK 's School of Energy and Environment (SEE) , has been appointed as the FIRST Programme Director. Commenting on the launch, Prof. Tso stated, "We will kick off the first phase of the FIRST Programme in June 2025, targeting pilot regions with hot climates and limited access to reliable electricity." Core Innovations of the Project: Among these, passive radiative cooling technology developed and implemented by i2Cool distinguishes itself through its mature product platform and extensive global deployment experience to provide critical support in high-temperature and resource-scarce areas. Since its founding, i2Cool has been dedicated to advancing " green cooling + social benefit" through its "Cool Down for a Better Summer" initiative. This initiative has already reached over 7,000 square meters in climate-vulnerable communities worldwide. In total, i2Cool's innovative cooling technology has been implemented across more than 380,000 square meters in nearly 30 countries and regions, resulting in over 200 successful projects. "i2Cool is committed to driving sustainable development through innovative technology. Over the next decade, we will continue validating our solutions in diverse climates and applications to localize radiative cooling technology. Our goal is to build an affordable, scalable, and sustainable cooling paradigm. We look forward to working with global partners to empower communities through innovation and inclusive partnerships, contributing to a more equitable and sustainable future," said Prof. Martin Zhu, CEO of i2Cool. About i2Cool i2Cool is a green and energy-efficient technology pioneer specializing in passive radiative cooling. Established by leading professors and young scientists from the School of Energy and Environment at City University of Hong Kong, i2Cool transforms cutting-edge research, featured in top journals such as Science, into innovative commercial solutions. The company's core products are electricity-free cooling coatings and window films, along with a diverse range of other products such as textiles, membranes, automotive solutions, and ceramics. For more information about i2Cool, please visit their official website at
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
i2Cool's Radiative Cooling Technology to Drive Global Sustainability in UN-Backed FIRST Programme
HONG KONG, May 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- i2Cool is honored to participate in the Fostering Innovation for Resilience and Sustainable Transformation (FIRST) Programme, a global initiative led by City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) and officially endorsed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Selected as one of only 30 projects worldwide recognized under the United Nations International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development (2024–2033), this project aims to advance sustainability through innovation and collaboration. The FIRST Programme has emerged in response to urgent global challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, water scarcity, and the need for clean energy transitions. With a strong focus on innovation and international collaboration, the programme aims to accelerate progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Led by CityUHK in collaboration with UNESCO, i2Cool, and a diverse network of international partners, the initiative represents a concerted global effort to build a sustainable future through science, technology, and cooperative action. Mr. Tse Chin-wan, BBS, JP, Secretary for Environment and Ecology of the HKSAR said "With the endorsement of the UNESCO, the FIRST Programme sets a powerful example of how collaboration and innovation can create a more sustainable future for all. I am pleased to support this initiative and look forward to seeing its positive impact on our community and beyond." Professor Freddy Boey, President and University Distinguished Professor of CityUHK, said, "I am delighted that CityUHK will lead this crucial initiative to address sustainability challenges by developing affordable innovations in collaboration with our global partners. The Programme reflects CityUHK's commitment to Innovating into the Future and offering tangible solutions to global challenges." Ir Prof. Edwin Tso Chi-yan, co-founder of i2Cool and Associate Dean (Internationalisation and Outreach) at CityUHK's School of Energy and Environment (SEE) , has been appointed as the FIRST Programme Director. Commenting on the launch, Prof. Tso stated, "We will kick off the first phase of the FIRST Programme in June 2025, targeting pilot regions with hot climates and limited access to reliable electricity." Core Innovations of the Project: Passive Radiative Cooling Coatings Using Local Waste Materials for Lowering Temperatures of Houses Affordable Printable Solar Films for Generating Electricity in Rural Areas Biomass Waste-to-Energy Conversion for Circular Economy Human-powered Sanitation System for Generating Potable Water Among these, passive radiative cooling technology developed and implemented by i2Cool distinguishes itself through its mature product platform and extensive global deployment experience to provide critical support in high-temperature and resource-scarce areas. Since its founding, i2Cool has been dedicated to advancing "green cooling + social benefit" through its "Cool Down for a Better Summer" initiative. This initiative has already reached over 7,000 square meters in climate-vulnerable communities worldwide. In total, i2Cool's innovative cooling technology has been implemented across more than 380,000 square meters in nearly 30 countries and regions, resulting in over 200 successful projects. "i2Cool is committed to driving sustainable development through innovative technology. Over the next decade, we will continue validating our solutions in diverse climates and applications to localize radiative cooling technology. Our goal is to build an affordable, scalable, and sustainable cooling paradigm. We look forward to working with global partners to empower communities through innovation and inclusive partnerships, contributing to a more equitable and sustainable future," said Prof. Martin Zhu, CEO of i2Cool. About i2Cool i2Cool is a green and energy-efficient technology pioneer specializing in passive radiative cooling. Established by leading professors and young scientists from the School of Energy and Environment at City University of Hong Kong, i2Cool transforms cutting-edge research, featured in top journals such as Science, into innovative commercial solutions. The company's core products are electricity-free cooling coatings and window films, along with a diverse range of other products such as textiles, membranes, automotive solutions, and ceramics. For more information about i2Cool, please visit their official website at View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE i2Cool Limited Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
New York Post
02-05-2025
- Automotive
- New York Post
Reckless Ohio driver causes multi-vehicle crash by coming to full stop on busy interstate after missing exit — then flees
A reckless driver caused a three-vehicle crash on a busy Ohio interstate when they came to a dead stop after missing an exit and tried merging over during rush hour traffic. The Ohio Department of Transportation posted a jaw-dropping clip that shows a heavy flow of traffic on Interstate 71 moments before the wreck around 5:24 p.m. near downtown Columbus on April 30, The Columbus Dispatch reported. In the clip, a red minivan is seen crawling into the frame in the middle lane of the busy three-lane highway as other vehicles zip around it. Advertisement The driver of the van appeared to have missed the exit heading towards Dayton and decided to take a risk, coming to a full stop in hopes of cutting across two lanes of traffic. As the minivan came to a standstill, two other minivans were forced to abruptly stop behind the reckless driver as vehicles in both adjacent lanes continued to speed past them. Advertisement However, a large passenger van plowed into the back of the minivan, propelling it forward into the other, causing a multi-vehicle accident. The driver of the red van, who caused the wreck, then seizes the opportunity to cross over into the left lane and carelessly merge into the exit, driving off. The reckless driver of the red minivan has not been identified after fleeing from the scene, and no life-threatening injuries were reported, according to the outlet. In the clip, a red minivan is seen crawling into the frame in the middle lane of the busy three-lane highway as other vehicles zip around it. ABC 6 via Ohio Department of Transportation Advertisement 'When you are driving along a major interstate and you miss your exit do you: A) keep driving and get off at the next one or B) come to a complete stop, cause a multi-car rear-end crash and then drive away,' The Ohio Department of Transportation prompted its followers in its post. 'HINT: The answer is NEVER B. Do not be this driver.' Ohio Department of Transportation Press Secretary Matt Bruning told Fox 8 that the driver did the 'worst thing you can do on a highway' if they missed their exit. A large passenger van collided with the rear of the minivan, propelling it forward into the other vehicle, resulting in a multi-vehicle accident. ABC 6 via Ohio Department of Transportation Advertisement 'What this driver did is extremely dangerous and the absolute worst thing you could do,' he said. According to studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, around 94% of motor vehicle accidents are estimated to be caused by driver error. A nationwide study released by the personal finance website ValuePenguin in April — used data from the NHTSA, Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), and the Fatality and Injury Reporting System Tool (FIRST) — found that reckless driving was responsible for 6.4% of motor vehicle deaths from 2018 to 2022, totaling more than 12,600 fatalities. In 2021, it led to more than 3,000 deaths, making up 7.1% of that year's motor vehicle deaths.
Hamilton Spectator
01-05-2025
- Science
- Hamilton Spectator
Alpha Dogs: Leading the Pack, Season Summary for Humberview Secondary School Robotics Team
The Alpha Dogs robotics team from Humberview Secondary School wrapped up their 12th season by competing in the FIRST Robotics World Championships held last week in Houston, TX. FIRST is a global non-profit dedicated to inspiring students to pursue careers in STEM. The competition placed the Alpha Dogs in the Galileo division, where they demonstrated their skills by going undefeated through the 10 qualification matches held on Thursday, April 17, and Friday, April 18. It was here at the World Championships that the Alpha Dogs completed their long-term goal of competing in the Einsteins, the inter-divisional playoffs. Although they were eventually eliminated from the playoffs, the team finished in an impressive 6th place overall. Their global ranking is now 22nd out of 3690 teams, placing them in the top one percent. In Canada, they ranked 4th out of 193 teams, and 4th in Ontario out of 130 teams. This successful season has been a long time coming, as over their twelve years as a team, they've made numerous changes to strengthen not only their robots but their teamwork. Becky Krauter, a mentor for the team and teacher at Humberview Secondary School, recounted what it was like when the team started. Before they had use of Bolton Agricultural Society's President's building as a field, the team would painstakingly remove the tables from the cafeteria in their school at the end of the day to use as their practice field, only to put all the tables and chairs back hours later and repeat the next day. 'So that's been a huge game changer for us,' said Krauter. 'And we've noticed a huge growth in our ability to be successful.' Successful they were, Krauter stated how Einsteins had been elusive to the team for many years. 'To be able to actually get there and compete was hugely exciting. The kids felt that huge sense of accomplishment of meeting that goal,' she said. 'For us as mentors it was huge because this has been sort of where we wanted the kids to get next. To be able to achieve that was really amazing, and then to go one further and actually win our first match was like icing on the cake.' Krauter stated that although only senior team members could go, the entire team was cheering them on from home. For Krauter, this was not the only accomplishment she saw, as the team demonstrated exceptional commitment throughout the season. The team logs their hours, and this season, they amassed over 5,500 hours in total among the approximate 45 active students. 'They're passionate. They have excellent problem-solving skills, and they have excellent technical skills,' said Krauter. At FIRST, the teams compete while maintaining two core values, Gracious Professionalism and Coopetition. According to the FIRST website, 'Gracious professionalism proves that fierce competition and mutual gain coexist. Participants compete intensely while treating each other with respect and empathy.' Coopetition means that teams help and cooperate with each other, even as they compete. It's about learning from teammates, teaching others, collaborating with mentors, managing and being managed. It's these two values that Krauter has loved about robotics since she joined as a mentor seven years ago. 'As a teacher, I think these are huge skills or qualities that I really want the students to be learning,' she said.
