PTC expands partnership with FIRST

(Photo from a FIRST event taken from FIRST's website)

Parametric Technology Corp., a Needham company that refers to itself as PTC, said today that it will expand its sponsorship of a program called FIRST, which stands For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology.

FIRST, PTC noted in a press release, strives to engage students in grades K-12 in exciting and innovative programs designed around the use of robotics to develop science and technology skills and motivate students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math, which are collectively referred to as STEM.

Inventor Dean Kamen founded FIRST in 1989 to inspire an appreciation of science and technology in young people. Based in Manchester, N.H., the program designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology, and engineering, PTC said in its press release. (In an AP file photo at right, Kamen demonstrates the Segway Human Transporter, a one-person battery-powered scooter.)

James Heppelmann, executive vice president and chief product officer of PTC, said in a statement: “The FIRST experience leaves an indelible impression on all participants – students, coaches, mentors, volunteers, and sponsors. The enthusiasm of the teams in the pit areas is contagious and watching the students work together, pooling skills and resources to help each team compete, is inspiring. The ability to collaborate and share information across teams and boundaries is a critical success factor for product development organizations. FIRST is helping to develop the skilled technology workforce of the future and PTC is proud to continue sponsorship of this important initiative.”

PTC specializes in providing product lifecycle management, content management, and dynamic publishing solutions to more than 50,000 organizations worldwide.
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)