FIRST
For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology is a not-for-profit organization devoted to helping young people discover and develop a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).
"To transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people dream of becoming science and technology leaders."
Dean Kamen, Founder
Mission
Our mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.
Founded nearly 20 years ago by inventor Dean Kamen, the 2010–2011 FIRST season attracted more than 248,000 youth and more than 90,000 Mentors, Coaches, and Volunteers from 56 countries. The annual programs culminate in an international robotics competition and celebration where teams win recognition, gain self confi dence, develop people and life skills, make new friends, and perhaps discover an unforeseen career path.
Jr. FIRST Lego League - Grades K-3 (ages 6-9)
Jr.FLL captures young children’s inherent curiosity and directs it toward discovering the wonders of science and technology. This program features a real-world scientific concept to be explored through research, teamwork, construction, and imagination. Guided by adult Coaches, teams use LEGO® bricks to guild a model that moves and develop a Show-Me Poster to illustrate their journey. . more ...
FIRST Lego League - Grades 4-8 (ages 9-16)
In FLL, children are immersed in real-world science and technology challenges. Teams design their own solution to a current scientific question or problem and build autonomous LEGO robots that perform a series of missions. Through their participation, children develop valuable life skills and discover exciting career possibilities while learning that they can make a positive contribution to society. more ...
FIRST Tech Challenge - High School
FTC is designed for high-schoolers who want to compete head to head using a sports model. Teams of up to 10 students are responsible for designing, building, and programming their robots to compete on a 12 X 12’ field in an Alliance format against other teams. Robots are built using a TETRIX® platform that is reusable from year-to-year using a variety of languages. Teams, including Coaches, Mentors, and Volunteers, are required to develop strategy and build robots based on sound engineering principles. Awards are given for the competition as well as community outreach, design, and other real-world accomplishments. more ...
FIRST Robotics Competition - High School
Dubbed a varsity Sport for the Mind,™ FRC combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. Under strict rules, limited resources, and time limits, teams of 25 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. more ...
* All information obtained from the FIRST website.
