About FIRST

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded in 1989 by Dean Kamen as a way to promote engineering, science, and technology through fun and exciting competitions. FIRST is a non-profit organization based in Manchester, New Hampshire, which fosters hands–on learning. Young people learn not only engineering and technology skills, but also self-confidence, communication, and leadership through the challenges FIRST gives students all over the world.

FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is a competitive and unique yearly challenge designed for high school students. With only the tool kit provided for them, teams have six weeks to design and build a robot for a specific challenge which changes every year. Past competitions have included robots lifting giant objects, racing around tracks, and manipulating delicate game pieces. However, FRC is not only about the robots. In fact, the most prestigious prize, the Chairman's Award, is given to teams that embody Gracious Professionalism, give back to their communities, help fellow teams, and ultimately improve the lives of others.

FIRST Scholarships

FIRST is a strong supporter of higher education; FIRST awards many students scholarships to colleges and universities around the world. This year alone, FIRST is awarding over 600 individual scholarships amounting to $14 million dollars total. These scholarships encourage education by enabling students to pursue careers in engineering, computer science, math, design, and aeronautics (among many others).

FIRST Values

Gracious Professionalism^TM

Gracious Professionalism is not only a way of work, but a way of life. As FIRST's core value, it encourages friendly competition. Gracious professionals work hard, learn hard, and help others with hard tasks. They are the best in the business, not because they're better, but because as one gear in the machine, each teaches others and makes the machine run smoothly. Gracious professionals in competition are like two friends in the same race; each wants the other to succeed, but that doesn't subtract from their desire to win. Gracious professionalism involves improving society through teaching and encouraging others, even as a small gear in a giant, complex, machine.

Coopertition^TM

Coopertition^TM When the going gets tough, the tough get going, and the toughest get others going too. When the odds are down, the best leaders keep their tempers down, too. Coopertition really means to help a struggling teammate. It is working with others to solve problems. It is also learning from others and respecting their opinions. By (cooperating), not only is everyone happier, but they are also more productive. It takes a true leader to remain calm and encouraging while still trying to win, which is the essence of coopertition, and why it is a core value of FIRST.