Tyco Electronics Inspires Next Generation of Engineers as Gold Supplier of the FIRST Robotics Competition

BERWYN, Pa., March 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ Tyco Electronics Ltd. today announced that it is again joining forces with FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), a not-for-profit organization founded to inspire young people's interest and participation in science and technology. As a Gold Supplier of the annual FIRST Robotics Competition, Tyco Electronics supports teams in Pennsylvania, California, North Carolina and Oregon.

Through its foundation, Tyco Electronics has supported the FIRST Robotics Competition for more than a decade, and annually donates more than $50,000 in products and supplies that are used by student teams in a competition to build robots. With this sponsorship, Tyco Electronics is putting the latest technology into the hands of students, giving them the opportunity to apply the same tools used by professional scientists and engineers and ultimately helping them to acquire skills they will carry into the workplace.

According to Tyco Electronics Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer Rob Shaddock, "We are pleased to support a program that encourages young people to consider the fields of science, technology and engineering. Tyco Electronics' long-standing support of this program in several communities in which we have a strong presence has the added benefit of developing a rich talent pool from which we hope to draw in the future."

ABOUT TYCO ELECTRONICS

Tyco Electronics Ltd. is a leading global provider of engineered electronic components, network solutions, undersea telecommunication systems and wireless systems, with 2008 sales of $14.8 billion to customers in more than 150 countries. We design, manufacture and market products for customers in industries from automotive, appliance and aerospace and defense to telecommunications, computers and consumer electronics. With nearly 8,000 engineers and worldwide manufacturing, sales and customer service capabilities, Tyco Electronics' commitment is our customers' advantage. More information on Tyco Electronics can be found at http://www.tycoelectronics.com/.

ABOUT FIRST

Accomplished inventor Dean Kamen founded FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) in 1989 to inspire an appreciation of science and technology in young people. Based in Manchester, N.H., FIRST designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology, and engineering. With the support of many of the world's most well-known companies, the not-for-profit organization hosts the FIRST Robotics Competition and FIRST Tech Challenge for high-school students, FIRST LEGO League for children 9-14 years old, and Junior FIRST LEGO League for 6 to 9 year-olds. To learn more about FIRST, go to http://www.usfirst.org.