Features

A FIRST for the future

Sophia Gustafson, Writer | 11/08/2021

For kids interested in Science and Technology, FIRST Robotics can give you a whole new world. FIRST Robotics, a program designed to get kids interested in STEM, was started by Dean Kamen in 1989. FIRST stands for “For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology”.

With core values to guide students along the way, students get a new game each year to complete challenges at different program levels. FIRST’s core values include Discovery, Innovation, Impact, Inclusion, Teamwork, and Fun.

The program is divided into three age group categories. Within the First Lego League program, they have three different categories. FLL Discover is for PreK- 1st graders, Explore for grades 2 - 4, and Challenge for grades 4-8. FIRST Tech Challenge is for grades 7-12. First Robotics Competition is for grades 9-12.

With an overarching theme for all ages but different games for each category, there is sure to be a place for everyone. There are also several different subteams that you can be on, which is sure to find a place for all.

Ben Young, a 2021 Pewaukee High School Graduate, is now at Milwaukee School of Engineering studying mechanical engineering. He was on 1259 Paradigm Shift all four years of his high school career. I asked Ben about his favorite memories, “One of my favorite memories while on the team was the opportunity for me to work with great people. Getting the opportunity to work with them for such long stretches of time helps to create bonds and friendships that go well past the confines of team meetings,” Young said. “Not only were we all able to build that trust and sense of community, I was personally fortunate enough to help coordinate between all these different subteams. Giving me the opportunity to work on and refine my soft skills like communication, time management, and leadership skills needed to manage small teams,”

Natalie Rodriguez, a Senior in Phoenix, Arizona is on 6413 Degrees of Freedom. I was able to ask her about the benefits of FIRST. “FIRST has benefited me as a student from the moment I stepped in. When I first entered my team, I didn’t know what I wanted to be in life, but 4 years later, I’m applying to colleges with a plan to major in engineering,” said Rodriguez. “Even outside of my team, I try implementing the values I learn from within FIRST either by making friends from other teams and maintaining gracious professionalism or at school when I work on my school’s new team where I take my teamwork and leadership skills to apply them there.”

FIRST also offers over $80 million in scholarships for students in both FRC and FTC. While giving students a hands-on STEM experience and focusing on their future, it is a no-brainer to get involved.