Students ages 9-14 with a passion for LEGO problem solving can pick up applications for the 10-member LEGO Thunder FIRST LEGO League team at Tri-State University. Applications will be accepted through Feb. 28 at 5 p.m. in the TSU Technology Office, Fawick Hall 226.

FIRST LEGO League is a basic global robotics program that unites technological discovery and problem solving. The TSU team will provide a unique opportunity for youths with a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to work with faculty and students in the Allen School of Engineering & Technology. Members will use LEGO Mindstorms NXT equipment, research, and teamwork to solve real-world problems.

Team members will attend weekly meetings through the spring, summer, and fall, and compete in regional FIRST LEGO League competitions in October through December, 2009. In addition to possessing a passion for LEGO problem solving, members must meet the age requirement by Sept. 1, 2008, and have transportation to team meetings on the TSU campus on Wednesdays from 3:30-5 p.m. beginning March 19, 2008.

“Tri-State University is particularly pleased to sponsor a FIRST LEGO League team this year. This activity provides a wonderful opportunity for area youth to experience the excitement of combining math, science, and creativity in a team setting to build and program LEGO Mindstorms NXT equipment to do some very cool stuff,” said Dr. David Finley, TSU Vice President for Academic Affairs. “The FIRST LEGO League team builds upon TSU’s Bolting into Engineering, Science, and Technology summer camp (BEST Camp) and summer LEGO camps to introduce young people to exciting career opportunities in related fields.”

To receive an application, contact professor Tom Trusty in the Department of Technology at trustyt@tristate.edu or 260.665.4266. For more information on the FIRST LEGO League, visit www.firstlegoleague.org.