About FIRST
Discover FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), the organization that's transforming education and inspiring the next generation of innovators through robotics.
The FIRST Mission
"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."
FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a non-profit, international organization founded in 1989 by Dean Kamen, an inventor and entrepreneur. Its goal is to inspire and educate young people in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through a mentor-based teaching system.
FIRST Programs
FIRST® offers a progression of programs to inspire innovation at every age level.
FIRST® LEGO® League Discover
Ages 4-6
Early introduction to STEM through hands-on learning with LEGO® bricks.
FIRST® LEGO® League Explore
Ages 6-10
Teams explore real-world challenges and learn to design and code basic robots.
FIRST® LEGO® League Challenge
Ages 9-16
Teams design, build, and program robots to solve real-world problems.
FIRST® Tech Challenge
Ages 12-18
Students learn to design, build, and program robots for a sports-like competition.
FIRST® Robotics Competition
Ages 14-18
The ultimate Sport for the Mind™ where teams build industrial-size robots.
Gracious Professionalism®
A term coined by FIRST® advisor Woodie Flowers, is the backbone of FIRST®, motivating innovation and respect for team members and competitors alike. Teams compete honorably but still treat one another with mutual kindness.
Coopertition®
Adding to our core values, Coopertition® encourages the notion that in the heat of competition, teams can help and learn from each other. It's about displaying unqualified kindness and respect in the face of fierce competition.