Founded by inventor Dean Kamen in 1989, FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) seeks to “inspire young people to be science and technology leaders and innovators, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering, and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership”.

Since its inception, the FIRST organization has expanded to consist of four international robotics programs:

FIRST Lego League Jr (ages 4-10)

FIRST Lego League (ages 9-16, varies by country)

FIRST Tech Challenge (ages 12-18)

FIRST Robotics Competition (ages 14-18)

FIRST participation is proven to encourage students to pursue education and careers in STEM-related fields, inspire them to become leaders and innovators, and enhance their 21st century work-life skills. For more information on FIRST, visit their official website.

FIRST Robotics Competition is an international high school robotics competition operated by FIRST®. Each year, teams of high school students, coaches, and mentors work to build robots capable of competing in that year's game.