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What's FIRST ?
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a non-profit organization devoted to inspire and help young people develop a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). For more than 30 years, FIRST has served as a platform for young and creative minds to explore STEM, solve real-world problems and compete in challenging yet rewarding robotics competitions.
Thanks to FIRST, participants gain recognition, self-confidence, develop leadership and life skills, make new friends and have the hardest fun ever.
“FIRST is more than robots. The robots are a vehicle for students to learn important life skills. Kids often come in not knowing what to expect – of the program nor of themselves. They leave, even after the first season, with a vision, with confidence, and with a sense that they can create their own future.”
Dean Kamen
Grades 4-8
FIRST® LEGO® League guides youth through STEM learning and exploration at an early age. From Discover, to Explore, and then to Challenge, students will understand the basics of STEM and apply their skills in an exciting competition while building habits of learning, confidence, and teamwork skills along the way.
Grades 7-12
FIRST® Tech Challenge is designed for students who want to compete head to head using an exciting sports model. Teams design, build, and program their robots to compete on a 12′ X 12′ field, in an Alliance format, against other teams. Robots are built from a reusable platform, powered by Android technology, and programmed using Java. Teams, including Coaches, Mentors, and Volunteers, are required to develop strategy and build robots based on sound engineering principles, such as rapid prototyping. Awards are given for the competition, as well as community outreach, design, and other real-world accomplishments.
Grades 8-12
Dubbed a varsity Sport for the Mind™, FIRST® Robotics Competition combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. Teams of 10 students or more are challenged to raise funds, design a team “brand,” hone teamwork skills, and build and program a robot to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors. It’s as close to “real world” engineering as a student can get. Professional Mentors volunteer their time and talents to guide each team.