FIRST

"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

FIRST® is an acronym for "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology"

FIRST® is a robotic community that prepares young people for their future through a series of team-made robotic programs for PreK-12. This work can be done at school or through clubs. The program is supported by a system of volunteers, educators and sponsors including more than 200 Fortune 500 companies. The teams under the FIRST values carry out research, background collections, design, construction, and exhibit their skills during annual challenges.

This non-profit company was founded by inventor Dean Kamen in 1989. FIRST has a profound impact on science learning and skills development, beyond high school. Participants in the FIRST program gain access to academic offers and internships that create connections and pave the way for a multitude of careers. Based in Manchester NH, FIRST creates innovative and affordable programs that motivate young people to pursue careers in science, engineering, technology and mathematics, while building individual self-confidence and skills.

FIRST Mission

The mission of FIRST is to inspire young people and encourage them to pursue careers that enable them to become leaders in the fields of science and technology. For this purpose, FIRST aims to create programmes, led by mentors, enabling young people to develop their technological and scientific skills as well as their innovation and leadership and communication skills.

FIRST Impact

With the aim of preparing young people for a future scientific or technological career, FIRST ensures that each of its programmes has a positive impact on all participants. Several years of research conducted by the Centre on Youth and Communities at the University of Brandeis have highlighted this positive impact. With only one year of FIRST participation, participants are 2 to 3 times more likely to have increased opportunities in science than non-FIRST participants.

First Values

The FIRST values emphasize sporting spirit, respect for others, teamwork, learning, and collective engagement. These values aim to preserve the culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Here are some of these values:
Discovery: We explore new skills and ideas.
Innovation: We use creativity and persistence to solve problems.
Have an impact: We apply what we learn to improve the world.
Inclusion: We respect others and accept our differences.
Teamwork: We are stronger when we work together.
Have fun: We love and celebrate what we do.