What is FIRST®?
FIRST® stands for "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology."
It's mission: FIRST® designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge and life skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology and engineering.
FIRST® Robotics Competition (FRC®)
In 1992 FIRST® began the FIRST® Robotics Competition with 28 teams and a single 14 x 14 foot playing field in a New Hampshire high school gym. Today, it has more than 2,000 teams participating nationwide and internationally, in over 60 Regional events and in a culminating Championship event in April of each year.
FIRST® Robotics Competition (FRC®) is a unique varsity sport of the mind designed to help high-school-aged young people discover how interesting and rewarding the life of engineers and researchers can be.
The FIRST® Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in competitions designed by Dean Kamen, Dr. Woodie Flowers, and a committee of engineers and other professionals.
FIRST® redefines winning for these students because they are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, Gracious Professionalism™ and maturity, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last.
What is unique about the FRC® program?
- It is a sport where the participants play with the pros and learn from them
- Designing and building a robot is a fascinating real-world professional experience
- Competing on stage brings participants as much excitement and adrenaline rush as conventional varsity tournaments
- The game rules are a surprise every year
Download more information about the FIRST® Robotics Competition (pdf)
Download the FIRST® Robotics Competition Fact Sheet (pdf)
How does the FIRST®Robotics Competition Work (pdf)
Learn more about the FIRST® Robotics Competition at the official FIRST® website.
FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC®)
The FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC®) is a mid-level robotics competition for high-school students that launched in 2005. It offers the traditional challenge of a FIRST® Robotics Competition but with a more accessible and affordable robotics kit. The ultimate goal of FTC® is to reach more young people with a lower-cost, more accessible opportunity to discover the excitement and rewards of science, technology, and engineering.
Learn more about the FIRST® Tech Challenge at the official FIRST® website.
FIRST® LEGO® League (FLL®)
FIRST® LEGO® League (FLL®) is an exciting and fun global robotics program that ignites an enthusiasm for discovery, science, and technology in kids ages 9 to 16. Each year FLL® teams embark on an adventurous Challenge based on current, real-world issues. Guided by a team coach and assisted by mentors, the kids research and solve a real-world problem based on the Challenge theme, present their research and solutions, and build an autonomous robot using engineering concepts.
Learn more about the FIRST® LEGO® League at the official FIRST® website.
Junior FIRST® LEGO® League (Jr. FLL®)
The newest FIRST® program, Junior FLL® introduces the youngest students to the exciting world of science and technology. Just like FLL®, this program features a real-world challenge, to be solved through research, critical thinking and imagination. Guided by adult coaches, students work with LEGO® elements and moving parts to create solutions and present them for review.
Learn more about the Junior FIRST® LEGO® League at the official FIRST® website.
The above photos are the property of FIRST®.