What's FIRST?

FIRST is an acronym that stands for "For Inspiration & Recognition of Science & Technology". FIRST is an organization founded by Dean Kamen in 1989 (the inaugural FIRST Robotics Competition was held in 1992) in order to develop ways to excite students about the fields of engineering and technology. The FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is designed to inspire high school students to become engineers by giving them real world experience to develop a robot.

The FIRST Robotics Competition is the premiere competition held by FIRST. As of 2010, approximately 1,809 high school teams, totaling approximately 45,225 students from 12 different countries including: Brazil, Canada, Ecuador, Israel, the United States, the United Kingdom and more, these teams work to build a 100-130 pound robot that could complete a certain task, known as "the game", which changes every year and is presented to all teams at kick off. Teams are given a standard set of parts and the game details at the beginning of January, during kick off, and are given six weeks to, design, construct, and program a competitive robot that could accomplish the game's task. Teams compete in 33 regional competitions over several weeks in March to try and qualify for the championship event in St. Louis, Missouri in April.

FIRST is not just about the robots and the contest however, Gracious Professionalism is one of the core values of FIRST. Gracious professionalism is a way of doing things that encourages high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects individuals and the community. With Gracious Professionalism, fierce competition and mutual gain are not separate notions. Gracious Professionals learn and compete viciously, but treat one another with respect and kindness in the process. They avoid treating anyone like losers. No chest thumping talk, but no sticky-sweet platitudes of knowledge, Competition and Empathy are comfortably blended.

In the long run, Gracious Professionalism is part of pursuing a meaningful life. One can add to society and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing one has acted with integrity and sensitivity. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, Gracious Professionalism, and maturity and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last and most importantly, Teamwork!