“The hardest fun you’ll ever have.”

What is FIRST?

FIRST® is a nonprofit organization that inspires young people to explore and grow in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) through hands-on, team-based robotics programs.

Each season culminates in exciting competitions where students design, build, and program robots under strict rules, limited resources, and a fast timeline. Along the way, students gain confidence, develop real-world technical and leadership skills, build friendships, and discover new interests and career paths.

Known as “the ultimate sport for the mind,” FIRST® Robotics Competition is often described by students as “the hardest fun you’ll ever have.” With the guidance of volunteer professional mentors, teams learn what real engineering teamwork looks like—and finish the season at the premier FIRST® Championship event.

For more information, visit firstinspires.org/about.

Who is Winnovation?

Winnovation is a FIRST® Robotics Competition team founded in 2004 in Winnebago, IL. Since its founding, Winnovation has competed in over 80 competitions nationwide and has brought home over 40 awards, including 14 coveted blue banners. Winnovation's purpose is to expose students to leadership, teamwork, and community service opportunities via FIRST®.

Winnovation's goals include:

  • Encouraging youth to participate in positions of organizational leadership

  • Building cohesiveness, camaraderie, and responsibility in students

  • Supporting and engaging local communities through service learning projects

  • Generating experience and knowledge in all STEAM fields

  • Demonstrating gracious professionalism

Winnovation's impact is lasting! The team prepares students with a wide range of skills and interests by bringing them together to work towards a common cause. This experience provides real-world exposure as they collaborate with industry professionals, build their networks, and gain an advantage after high school graduation.

Our Leadership

  • Maren York

    Chair of the Board, Director of Business Operations

    Maren began her journey with Winnovation as a team parent and quickly became an active part of the program. She stepped into the role of Chair of the Board and Director of Business Operations in late 2025. Maren is committed to continuing Winnovation’s legacy of STEM advocacy, community service, and student growth, bringing energy, organization, and a genuine passion for supporting young people.

  • Seth Lightfoot

    Board Member, Director of Engineering

    As a Winnovation alum himself (Class of 2013), Seth came back to give students the same meaningful opportunities that shaped his own path. He brings both his engineering and project management experience in the aerospace industry to help students build skills and confidence that go far beyond robotics.

  • Karen Hill

    Board Member, Chair Emeritus

    Karen co-founded Winnovation in 2004 and spent many years at the heart of the team’s everyday operations, fostering the community-focused culture students know today. Her dedication to service and mentorship has shaped countless students, and she continues to champion the team as a committed member of the Board of Directors.

  • Scott Hill

    Board Member

    Scott is a WFFA winner whose inventiveness and hands-on problem-solving have shaped Winnovation’s robots for years. He has spent countless hours in the shop guiding students through design, fabrication, and creative thinking while often drawing on the practical skills he’s honed around the farm to help Winnovation field some of the team’s most competitive machines.

  • Jim York

    Board Member

    Jim is a materials engineer in the aerospace industry who strongly believes in building the future through STEM education. He previously led Winnebago’s FTC team and now brings his technical skill, dedication, and mentorship to Winnovation. Jim’s experience and passion help guide students through problem-solving, engineering challenges, and real-world design.

  • Dr. Nesher Asner

    Board Member, Facilities Manager

    A retired neurosurgeon and father of several Winnovation alumni, Dr. Asner brings a thoughtful outsider’s perspective that helps ground the team. He generously provides the Bot Shop facility and is always ready to support students and mentors. Despite joking that he has “no applicable skills” his presence and commitment make Winnovation stronger year after year.

  • Don Kahler

    Board Member

    Don and his wife Polly have been a part of the Winnovation family since their oldest son joined the team in 2008. Don brings valuable manufacturing know-how from his work in the industry, offering machine training, equipment maintenance, and guidance on fabrication. He also helps coordinate in-kind donations, making him an essential link between the team and our industry partners.