A Little Bit of History

Recognizing the lack of any one organization that strongly promotes science and technology in Central Virginia, Charlottesville Albemarle Robotics, a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization, was established to fill that gap. At Team 619, Cavalier Robotics, we encourage students and mentors to share and apply knowledge of engineering, business, and leadership skills through a fun, hands-on experience. As a team, members work toward a common goal of designing, building, marketing, and operating a competitive robot in a business-like environment while supporting the ideals of FIRST.

Since 2001 Team 619 has successfully participated annually in FIRST Regional Competitions in Richmond and Washington, D.C., two of many FIRST regional competitions. At the conclusion of the annual regional competitions FIRST also conducts a Championship event that involves over 350 teams. Team 619 participated in the 2006 Championship, held at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.

As a team Cavalier Robotics strives to follow the FIRST Robotics principle of “Gracious Professionalism,” a term coined by Dean Kamen, founder of FIRST.

From the FIRST website:

“Gracious Professionalism is part of the ethos of FIRST. It’s a way of doing things that encourages high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects individuals and the community. With Gracious Professionalism, fierce competition and mutual gain are not separate notions. Gracious professionals learn and compete like crazy, but treat one another with respect and kindness in the process. They avoid treating anyone like losers. No chest thumping tough talk, but no sticky-sweet platitudes either. Knowledge, competition, and empathy are comfortably blended. In the long run, Gracious Professionalism is part of pursuing a meaningful life. One can add to society and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing one has acted with integrity and sensitivity.”