What is FIRST ?

Most people who have never heard of or gotten involved in FIRST might ask: What exactly is FIRST? Let’s see how some of our team members answer the question.

FIRST stands for "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology". It is a non profit organization that aims to inspire students in the engineering and technology fields. The program was founded by Dean Kamen and Woodie Flower in 1989. FIRST has become a large and influential organization that has motivated generations of students to become the future of America’s innovation.

How big has it become? Here are some statistics from the FIRST official website:

2010 FIRST Robotics Competition

• 1. 1,809 teams
• 2. 45,225 high-school students (Grades 9-12)
• 3. From 12 countries: Australia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Canada (4 provinces), Chile, Germany, Israel, Mexico, Netherlands, Turkey, United Kingdom, and the U.S. (50 states)
• 4. FIRST Robotics Competition Championship at the FIRST Championship in Atlanta, GA, April 15-17, 2010
• 5. Robots are built in 6 weeks from a common kit of parts provided by FIRST, and weigh up to 120 lbs. (excluding battery and bumpers)

Why so many students, parents and teachers are attracted to FIRST? One major factor influencing their decision is the FIRST spirit. The First Spirit encompasses hard work, cooperation with team and community members, and respect for different ideas and ways of doing things.

Here are some personal stories on how FIRST has impacted our alumni and mentors firsthand.