One of the many things I love about FIRST is its seasonality. There’s something natural and comforting about being able to look at a calendar and have an idea of not just what the weather may be like outside (if you live in a place like New England) but what’s going on in FIRST Robotics Competition. And the rhythm of a period of hard work followed by a time to rest and recover is good for the soul, I think.
Jobs also have their seasons – a time for starting and for ending. I’ve been thinking of this, and how it relates to my work at FIRST, for a long time. In May of 2019, I told Chris Rake (then VP of Programs) and Don Bossi (then President) that my window for retirement was three to five years. Three years from May 2019 is May 2022, and I’ve decided that’s when I’m going to retire.
I love FIRST, the teams, the volunteers, the supporters, the staff, and the folks we have in the field, and always will! There was no specific event that made me pick the earlier time in my window rather than a later time. But the truth is, I’m starting to feel a bit worn out. You all deserve a program director with the energy to keep pushing us forward and my battery is close to the blinking light stage. This is the time for my season as director to come to an end, and that’s OK!
I believe that FIRST Robotics Competition has a bright future and that my departure will not affect that. This will be a disruption, but the kind that can bring incredibly positive things! FIRST will start a search for my replacement a few months or so before I leave.
I have been unbelievably privileged and fortunate to be director of FIRST Robotics Competition. FIRST has brought me my highest of highs and given me true lifelong friends. I will never forget it. Also, I am not going anywhere! I am planning to continue to participate in FIRST, by visiting events and maybe volunteering. As Dean says, “there is no exit strategy in FIRST” and he’s right!
I have been truly blessed by this experience.
My love to all.
Frank