About FIRST

About

For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, also known as FIRST®, was founded in 1989 by Dean Kamen in order to encourage young people from ages 4-18 into STEM Robotics. This nonprofit organization helps students build their STEM knowledge through conducting research, design, and constructing a robot for competition. Their challenges build confidence, problem-solving skills, and teamwork that can make a lasting impact on STEM learning, interest, and abilities in young children.

Photo from FIRST®

Core Values

We explore new skills & ideas

We respect each other & respect our differences

We use creativity & persistence to solve problems

We are stronger when we work together

We apply what we learn to improve the world

We enjoy and celebrate what we do!

FIRST is guided by a set of Core Values: discovery, innovation, impact, inclusion, teamwork, and fun.

Discovery - We explore new skills & ideas

Innovation - We use creativity & persistence to solve problems

Impact - We apply what we learn to improve the world

Inclusion - We respect each other & respect our differences

Teamwork - We are stronger when we work together

Fun - We enjoy and celebrate what we do!

These Core Values are under their philosophies of Gracious Professionalism® and Coopertition®.

Gracious Professionalism

Gracious Professionalism®, coined by Dr. Woodie Flowers (1943-2019) is the way things are done in FIRST. Gracious Professionalism® encourages quality work, value of others, and respecting for a person or community. It allows for competition to be fierce and competitive while participants are still respectful and empathetic towards each other. Hateful play such as trash talking of the similar are not permitted.

Photo from FIRST®

Coopertition

In the eyes of FIRST, Coopertition® means that in the face of intense competition, teams are expected to show and promote kindness towards one another. Teams compete with one another while also assisting and collaborating with one another.

More information can be found on FIRST's website, FIRSTInspires

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