Robotics Non-Profit Names New President/Executive Director

AUSTIN, TX — The FIRST in Texas Foundation, a nonprofit supporting robotics teams and events throughout the state, named Christine Pollei as president and executive director.

In that role, Pollei will work closely with the statewide robotics community and embark on continual expansion of FIRST programs in Texas, officials said.

“Christine Pollei has a solid history of leadership running organizations like FIRST in Texas with a similar commitment to improving opportunities for children,” said Ray Almgren, Chair and Founder, FIRST in Texas Foundation. “Christine will guide the growth of all FIRST programs as we partner with the UIL to make robotics programs available to all schools in Texas.”

For the past 12 years, Pollei has helped inform and transition myriad organizations of various sizes. Officials described her as "an experienced multi-sector change manager and organizational developer," fluent in establishing processes identifying, developing and soliciting alternative funding sources and revenue streams. She also has distinguished herself by developing sustainable growth models, officials said.

Pollei formerly served as the CEO of Marathon Kids, a national nonprofit based in Austin. During her tenure, Marathon Kids grew its national programmatic footprint from three states to 47, doubling and diversifying its revenue stream. She also successfully founded two for-profit businesses.

“I am thrilled and honored to serve as President and Executive Director of FIRST in Texas,” said Christine Pollei of her new role. “I look forward to building upon the great work the Board, mentors, funders and partners have begun, to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology in the great state of Texas.”

Pollei will join the FIRST in Texas Foundation on May 1.

The FIRST in Texas Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that supports FIRST® Robotics teams and events across Texas with a focus on increasing accessibility for low-income and underrepresented students. FIRST® participants are significantly more likely to attend college, major in science or engineering, and be outstanding future employees and citizens, officials said.

The aim of the organization is to address the growing demands of the STEM workforce, officials said. To learn more about the FIRST® in Texas Foundation, visit www.firstintexas.org.

>>> Photo of Christine Pollei courtesy of FIRST® in Texas Foundation