Tomorrow's Innovators Podcast

This is Part 1 of 4 in a series of episodes dedicated to deconstructing how a successful FLL team functions. On this episode, Paul interviews Andrea Schmutz, head coach of the 4-H Nerf Herders robotics club.

Curtis Larsen, Computer Science Professor at Dixie State University, has been a FLL coach for 7 seasons, FTC coach for 2 seasons, 4-H volunteer club leader for robotics and computer science clubs for 5 years. Curtis and Paul debrief the 2017-18 HYDRODYNAMICS season.

Dave Francis, Extension Professor at Utah State University stars in this episode. Dave's STEM projects include: water quality, 4-H Teens as Teachers, 4-H Science in Urban Communities and engaging rural youth in Afterschool STEM efforts. His most recent efforts include building capacity for the Maker Movement and 4-H Computer Science with Google.

Craig is the Assistant Director of Utah 4-H and youth programs and State Specialist over 4-H Mentoring, Leadership, and Citizenship. Craig and Paul discuss 4-H, our nation's youth development organization.

Paul Hill introduces you to the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) organization, and this can't be done without first introducing its founder, Dean Kamen. Paul goes into mission, vision, methodology, and values of FIRST, as well as a brief explanation of the 4 FIRST programs:

• FIRST LEGO League Jr. (FLL Jr.)
• FIRST LEGO League (FLL)
• FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC)
• FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC)

Coming in July 2018, Paul Hill, USU Extension professor, begins his project to support the community of caring adults who volunteer in youth robotics programs such as: FIRST LEGO League Jr, FIRST LEGO League, FIRST Tech Challenge, & 4-H.

This podcast about guiding young people down the path of innovation and leadership. Paul and his guests will discuss the educational programs, resources, topics, and issues important to all mentors and leaders of tomorrow's innovators.