FIRST Robotics students, science and surgery convene for a half-day workshop with industry leaders and robotic technology at Intuitive Surgical

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Oct. 18, 2013 — (PRNewswire) —  Preparing and inspiring youth to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is vital to industry growth and the continued success of our region. Intuitive Surgical is hosting an open house for our local FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics High School teams on Saturday, October 19. Since 2006, Intuitive Surgical has supported local high schools' robotic teams through mentorship or financial donations. More than 200 Bay Area students who participated in the 2012-2013 FIRST Robotics program have been invited to participate in an open-house workshop that will include discussion with industry-leading engineers, interaction with robotic technology through demonstration of the da Vinci^® Surgical System, and opportunities to learn about careers in STEM.

"With only 16 percent of American high school seniors proficient in mathematics or interested in a STEM career, we think it is essential to provide these education opportunities outside the classroom," said Dave Rosa, Senior Vice President of Scientific Affairs at Intuitive Surgical. "It's critically important to invest our time and energy in mentoring the next generation of innovators. There's no better way to do that than by hands on education and personal interaction."

The open house is taking place at the Intuitive Surgical headquarters in Sunnyvale, Calif., from 9 a.m. – Noon PDT on Saturday, October 19.

About Intuitive Surgical & STEM
Intuitive Surgical proudly supports educational programs focused on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).  Intuitive Surgical's employees enthusiastically volunteer their time supporting high school and college programs around the United States through mentorship, public speaking and coaching robotics teams in preparation for local FIRST competitions. As part of its community outreach, the company hosts a competition, "RoboNanza", for Bay Area high schools on its Sunnyvale campus, where students can display their own robots.  Intuitive Surgical's global corporate, research and manufacturing headquarters are located in Sunnyvale, Calif.  Intuitive Surgical develops, manufactures and markets the da Vinci^® Surgical System.

SOURCE Intuitive Surgical

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