PRESS ROOM & NEWS

FIRST® Appoints Industry Experts Driving Innovation in Automation, Artificial Intelligence and Science Encouragement to Board of Directors

Executives from Clearpath Robotics, Altair and 3M Company Join the Board of the World’s Largest Youth Robotics Nonprofit 

MANCHESTER, N.H., May 6, 2025 – FIRST®, a global robotics community preparing young people for the future through hands-on STEM learning and education, today announced the appointment of three new members to its Board of Directors: 

  • Matt Rendall, CEO of Clearpath Robotics & OTTO Motors 
  • Jim Scapa, Founder and Former CEO of Altair 
  • Jayshree Seth, Corporate Scientist and Chief Science Advocate at 3M 

With expertise in robotics, artificial intelligence, simulation and science advocacy, these leaders bring unique and valuable perspectives that will help FIRST expand access to high-quality STEM opportunities for students around the world. 

“Matt, Jim, and Jayshree bring a powerful mix of industry expertise and purpose to the Board,” said Chris Moore, CEO, FIRST. “They understand the importance of creating real-world, inclusive STEM pathways, and will help us continue to grow our community in thoughtful, intentional ways, while staying true to the values that make our mission so impactful.” 

The FIRST Board of Directors includes leaders from business, government, education, and science, who guide the organization’s strategic direction and provide fiduciary oversight. The Board’s Governance & Nominating Committee regularly identifies and nominates individuals whose experience aligns with the organization’s long-term vision. Learn more about FIRST Leadership.    

“Matt, Jim, and Jayshree are strong additions to the Board,” said Dean Kamen, Founder of FIRST. “They have each built something lasting in tech or science, and they all have shown deep commitment to empowering the next generation. Their leadership will bring valuable insight to FIRST as we continue to scale our impact.” 

 

Meet the Newly Appointed Board Members: 

Matt Rendall, CEO of Clearpath Robotics & OTTO Motors 

Matt Rendall is the CEO and co-founder of Clearpath Robotics and OTTO Motors. In this role, Rendall leads one of the world’s most respected companies in autonomous robotics, acquired by Rockwell Automation in 2023. Under his leadership, Clearpath partners with academic, government and industrial institutions to advance automation globally. 

Clearpath and its parent company, Rockwell Automation, have been a FIRST Strategic Partner and sponsor for over a decade, supporting FIRST through both charitable and product donations. Clearpath Robotics also sponsors a local high school FIRST team, offering resources and employee guidance to help students grow their interests in STEM. 

"FIRST isn’t just shaping students—it’s shaping our future workforce,” said Rendall. “At Rockwell, we’ve seen firsthand how FIRST alumni bring an incredible mix of technical know-how, creative problem-solving, and real-world collaboration skills. These are exactly the qualities we look for when developing cutting-edge autonomous robotics systems. There is no better outlet to cultivate STEM skills early in life. I'm humbled at the opportunity to join the FIRST Board of Directors, and excited to help shape the future of this amazing organization." 

Jim Scapa, Founder and Former CEO of Altair 

With nearly four decades of leadership, Jim Scapa has grown Altair into a global powerhouse in computational science and artificial intelligence. With a background in mechanical engineering and business, Scapa has long championed innovation through simulation and data analytics and believes strongly in preparing the next generation of problem-solvers through hands-on, team-based learning.  

Altair has been a committed supporter of FIRST for years, providing free access to a comprehensive suite of software tools that help teams bring their ideas to life. In addition, Altair offers FIRST-specific training materials, regular virtual training sessions and a dedicated community support group designed to meet the unique needs of participants. Every year, Altair also awards financial grants to teams worldwide to further support their skill development. In 2025, Altair financially supported 30 FIRST® Robotics Competition teams.  

“There is an urgent need to equip the next generation with the tools to engineer a better world. FIRST provides that early understanding of what it means to tackle meaningful problems – and to do it as a team. That’s how future leaders are made.” said Scapa. 

Jayshree Seth, Corporate Scientist and Chief Science Advocate at 3M 

Jayshree Seth is a Corporate Scientist and 3M’s first Chief Science Advocate, holding more than 80 patents and is recognized globally for her contributions to innovation and widespread STEM outreach. Her experience with FIRST spans both sides of the coin: as a scientist who advocates for STEM education for all and as a parent of two FIRST alumni who has seen firsthand how FIRST programs shape and inspire young minds.  

3M has been a Strategic Partner of FIRST for over two decades, supporting the organization through product donations, volunteer mentorship and funding that has helped expand access to STEM for students – particularly those from under resourced communities. The company’s contributions have enhanced both the affordability and the hands-on experience of FIRST programs, while its employees regularly serve as mentors and role models for students across all levels.  

“I’ve seen the impact of FIRST up close – both as a scientist and a parent. It’s not just about robotics; it’s about building confidence, curiosity and a sense of belonging. We need more spaces like this, where every young person can discover exactly what they’re capable of,” said Seth. 

About FIRST® 

FIRST® is a robotics community that prepares young people for the future through a suite of inclusive, team-based robotics programs for ages 4-18 (PreK-12) that can be facilitated in school or in structured after-school programs. Boosted by a global support system of volunteers, educators, and sponsors that include over 200 of the Fortune 500 companies, teams operate under a signature set of FIRST Core Values to conduct research, fundraise, design, build, and showcase their achievements during annual challenges.

An international not-for-profit organization founded by accomplished inventor Dean Kamen in 1989, FIRST has a proven impact on STEM learning, interest, and skill-building well beyond high school. Participants and alumni of FIRST programs gain access to education and career discovery opportunities, connections to exclusive scholarships and employers, and a place in the FIRST community for life. Learn more at firstinspires.org.