Fastenal partners with FIRST Robotics to improve accessibility

Fastenal Company (NASDAQ: FAST) has partnered with FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) to manufacture accessibility ramps for robotics competitions, according to a company statement.

The initiative originated from FIRST Robotics Competition Team 3313 Mechatronics of Alexandria, Minnesota, whose member Andrew Fleming uses a wheelchair. The team identified that high walls and netting around competition fields made it difficult for wheelchair users to see and operate their robots during events.

Team 3313 developed a solution by creating custom-engineered ramps that provide clear sightlines for all participants. After working with a local industrial engineer and FIRST engineers to finalize the design, the team approached Fastenal for manufacturing support.

Fastenal's engineering and manufacturing teams worked with FIRST engineers to review the designs and produce the ramps. The company's Winona, Minnesota-based manufacturing facility produced 50 ramps with financial support from local community partners.

The ramps were delivered to a FIRST distribution center in Pennsylvania and debuted at the global FIRST Championship event in late April. They are now part of the standard competition show floor kit distributed to FIRST events.

"I've always felt like a part of my team," said Team 3313's Andrew Fleming. "But it's nice to know that my team and I have made such a large impact on the sport I love, Robotics."

Sally Olson, director of marketing for Fastenal, said the partnership aligns with the company's focus on education and engineering initiatives. FIRST operates K-12 robotics programs globally, founded in 1989 as an international not-for-profit organization.

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