FIRST®: For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology
FIRST® was founded in 1989 to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. FIRST designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills.
FIRST®‘s mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, 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.
FIRST® is the hardest fun you’ll ever have! It’s Sport for the Mind™!
- For Students, it’s addictive and life-changing.
- For Adults, it’s rewarding and satisfying.
- For Sponsors, it’s an investment in the future.
FIRST® is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization devoted to helping young people discover and develop a passion for science, engineering, technology, and math.
Founded over 20 years ago by inventor Dean Kamen, the FIRST® family of programs touches the lives of more than 400,000 youth each year and culminates in an international competition where teams win recognition and make new friends from all over the world.