Chatham Hall’s Dan Waters on Robotics Advisory Committee

We are thrilled to announce that Dan Waters P’14 has been selected to join the FIRST FRC Team Advisory Committee (TAC) for FIRST Chesapeake! This committee is made up of individuals who are passionate about robotics and STEM education and are affiliated with FRC teams across the Chesapeake District. Being part of this group allows Dan to actively contribute to enhancing the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) experience for students, mentors, and teams in our region.

Founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen, FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a global nonprofit dedicated to empowering young people through robotics programs designed to prepare them for the future. With offerings for Pre-K through high school students, FIRST’s team-based robotics challenges inspire participants to build skills in research, engineering, programming, and teamwork. However, FIRST is about More Than Robots®—its Core Values emphasize respect, community, and problem-solving, helping students gain self-confidence and develop a lifelong interest in STEM.

One of FIRST’s most notable programs is the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), which brings high school students and mentors together to tackle real-world engineering challenges. Teams design, build, and program robots each year to compete in thrilling, sports-like challenges. FRC extends beyond competition; it encourages students to engage in community outreach, develop a unique team identity, strengthen teamwork, and explore STEM career paths. The experience builds confidence and resilience, with teamwork and Gracious Professionalism® as valued as winning itself.

FIRST Chesapeake, which supports FTC and FRC teams in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia, emphasizes student-driven, mentor-based STEM education. With 477 teams and more than 6,000 students impacted, FIRST Chesapeake helps young people develop critical skills in robotics, leadership, communication, and collaboration, all while positively impacting their communities.