About FIRST

The FIRST Vision is “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

For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) was founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen and Professor Woodie Flowers as a robotics competition 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.” Based in Manchester, NH, the 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit public charity designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math, while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills. FIRST has grown considerably since its first competition in 1992, and we are proud to be a part of this organization!

FIRST is about more than just building robots. At all FIRST events, team members and mentors are expected to be ambassadors of Gracious Professionalism by showing respect for themselves and others. It is a great program that sparks a passion for science and technology in today’s young minds. The competition gives teams a chance to put their knowledge and skills to the test and prepare students to become future leaders.

To learn more, visit FIRST‘s website at www.firstinspires.org.