FIRST

    Founded in 1989 by Dean Kamen, FIRST is a non-profit organization dedicated to the cultivation of young minds through numerous programs and challenges. FIRST inspires children ages 4-18 and fuels their interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Experiences gained through any of FIRST’s programs help children gain the skills and knowledge to improve the world. 

     FIRST upholds their altruistic reputation and ethical standards through their Core Values: discovery, innovation, impact, inclusion, teamwork, and fun. These values encourage participants in all FIRST programs to try new things, be creative, improve the world, respect their peers, collaborate with others, and celebrate their work. 

 Additionally, Gracious Professionalism® and Coopertition® are vital pillars that support FIRST’s ethos. Gracious Professionalism® means teams try their all in the true nature of competition, while also respecting and supporting their competitors. This creates a welcoming and lively environment at every FIRST competition. Coopertition® contributes to this environment by encouraging teams to help each other in times of struggle. This may include lending a tool, providing advice, or simply sharing words of encouragement. In promoting these standards of good sportsmanship, FIRST is able to provide unforgettable experiences to all who participate. 

FIRST Robotics Competition

     Out of the many programs FIRST has to offer, the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is our challenge of choice. Each year, a new unique challenge is posed and teams all around the world have six weeks to engineer an industrial-size robot to complete the given tasks. Mentors help guide student-led teams while also pushing them to solve problems on their own. This helps students develop important skills for progressing into the professional world. Teams compete in a series of events leading from Districts all the way up to Worlds. These events are filled with competition and collaboration. Only the very best can advance to the next level, but no team can make it without a bit of support from others along the way.