What is FIRST?

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) develops ways to inspire students to become innovators in science, technology, engineering and math. FIRST promotes teamwork and collaboration and encourages competing teams to remain friendly.  Knowing it’s not all about technology, FIRST also works to instill self-confidence, communication and leadership capabilities with its participants. 

Gracious Professionalism?   Coopertition?  Huh!

Two terms you'll hear often from FIRST participants are gracious professionalism  and coopertition.  Gracious professionalism is a way of doing things that encourages high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects individuals and the community.

Coopertition involves learning from teammates. It is learning from mentors.  And it is managing and being managed.  Coopertition means competing always, but assisting and enabling others when you can. 

That's the way we roll! 

How? FIRST for ALL Ages!

• Junior FIRST Lego League or JFLL is the FIRST program for students in grades K through 3 (ages 6 to 9).  

• FIRST Lego League or FLL is the FIRST program for students in grades 4-8 (ages 9-14).

• FIRST Tech Challenge or FTC is the FIRST program for students in grades 9-12 (ages 14-18).

• FIRST Robotics Competition or FRC is the FIRST program for students in grades 9-12 (14-18).  

• College Students can volunteer to help at one of the many FIRST events.  This usually requires only the commitment of a day and little or no training. 

• Adults are needed as volunteers.  Volunteers help run the events as well as work with the teams.