Indian robotics expert becomes judge at prestigious US tech challenge
New Delhi/Kochi, June 26 In a significant recognition for India's growing footprint in the global robotics and STEM ecosystem, robotics expert Benson Thomas George has become the first Indian to be selected as a judge for the FIRST Tech Challenge Michiana Premier Event, one of the leading international robotics competitions held in the United States.
Hailing from Kerala, George, served on the international judging panel for the FTC Michiana Premier Event held in South Bend, Indiana, from June 18 to June 21.
His appointment marks the first time an Indian citizen has been inducted into the high-level panel that evaluates student innovations at one of the flagship events organised by FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), a globally-renowned non-profit promoting science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The event brought together 106 student teams from multiple countries, with participants aged between 12 and 18 showcasing innovations in robotics, Artificial Intelligence, engineering design and software development.
Expressing his delight over the recognition, George said the platform enables young innovators to gain practical exposure to cutting-edge technologies while encouraging them to develop solutions with real-world social impact.
Representing India on the international judging panel, he added, was both an honour and an opportunity to contribute to the global STEM community.
Judges assessed teams across a broad range of parameters, including robot design and construction, programming, engineering process, innovation, documentation, teamwork and community outreach.
Awards were presented in categories such as Innovation, Development, Sustainability, Outreach, Connect and Match Performance.
The FIRST Tech Challenge is regarded as one of the world's premier robotics competitions for school students, with outstanding performers often securing admission opportunities and scholarships at leading universities, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pennsylvania.
Collectively, scholarship opportunities associated with the programme exceed $80 million.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Proud moment indeed! 🇮🇳 But I hope the recognition doesn't stay limited to individual achievements. We need to build a culture where robotics and coding are taught from school level itself, not just in Metro cities. Im happy for Mr. George, but let's not forget the bigger picture.
This is awesome! I work in tech and it's refreshing to see Indian talent getting global credit. The $80 million scholarship pool is mind-blowing—imagine the opportunities for kids who participate. Hope more Indian schools register for FIRST competitions.
Sharing this with my younger brother who's crazy about robotics! 🤖 Finally some good news. But I do wish these competitions were more accessible in smaller towns—entry fees, travel costs, and English language barriers can be hurdles. Still, proud of our guy on the judging panel!
Respect to FIRST Tech Challenge—they take evaluation seriously. Robot design, programming, teamwork—that's a holistic assessment! This is what India's education system should emulate instead of rote learning. Kudos to Benson for representing us well. 🚀
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