About FIRST
FIRST is an acronym meaning "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology"
FIRST is an organization created by Dean Kamen for the sole purpose of inspiring an appreciation of science and technology in young people and their communities. By utilizing the skills and knowledge they acquire from the program, young people can enrich their lives and the lives of those living in their community. Their mission is to "design accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge and life skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology and engineering" (www.usfirst.org).
FIRST began to pursue their mission in 1989 with the FIRST Robotics Competition in which teams from all around the nation (and some from other nations) participate in a competitive game environment. After about a decade from which it had began, the program now reaches more than 20,000 students in over 900 teams.
Colleges, universities, corporations, and many others have taken notice of this growing program and provide venues, sponsorships, and much more for this program. They have also provided scholarship opportunities for participants. Experienced engineers also volunteer their time to help with the program, whether directly or indirectly by lending their expertise to competing teams.
The FIRST program has expanded into many different areas, now with a Lego League for youth in their years preceding high school, and a Vex Challenge (called the "Tech Challenge") utilizing smaller robots for teams that cannot afford to participate in FRC. At this rate of growth, one can only fantom what will come from FIRST in the future, but the probability that these outcomes will positively impact the world are unequivocal.
This information has been all taken from the offical FIRST website. Please visit the website for more information regarding the program.
