THE ORGANIZATION:
FIRST was founded in 1989. In the first year 28 teams at one event played in the first Robotics Competition in a New Hampshire high school gymnasium. In 2007, over 1300 teams, with many corporate sponsors, will compete in 17 regional events and the National Championship event in Atlanta, Georgia. FIRST also sponsors a FIRST LEGO League competition and a series of education-related projects and programs. FIRST is a 501 (c)(3) organization headquartered in Manchester, New Hampshire.

VISION:
Dean Kamen, founder of FIRST, imagines a day when the act of invention - that is, the work of scientists, engineers and technologists - is as revered in the popular culture as music, athletics and entertainment are today. The FIRST vision is to inspire in young people, their schools and communities, an appreciation of science and technology and an understanding that mastering these can enrich the lives of all.

HOW IT WORKS:
Through a large, successful and growing community of educators, parents, community leaders, engineers, volunteers and sponsors, FIRST builds alliances that inspire and prepare the talent pool, workforce, leaders and capable, technologically literate citizens of tomorrow. FIRST designs accessible, innovative programs that build self-confidence, knowledge and life skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology and engineering.

THE GOAL:
The FIRST Robotics Competition challenges teams of students and their mentors to design and build a robot in a six-week time frame, using a standard "kit of parts". The team has to analyze the game and strategize what type of robot would perform well. Typical teams meet months in advance of the building period to learn basic skills and be better prepared. The goal isn't simply to build a robot; the robot is a vehicle for learning much more. The real goal is building a collaborative team, a supportive community and a solid strategy for problem solving during the competition.

TEAMS:
The average team competing is comprised of 35 students and 6 adult mentors; however, entire schools, school districts and communities are involved with FIRST. Typically a corporate sponsor funds the team.

WINNING:
FIRST redefines winning for these students. Scoring the greatest number of points is terrific, but winning comes with excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism, the ability and maturity to overcome obstacles. Winning means building partnerships with other students, with professionals, between school and business and among communities.

"For me, FIRST is an opportunity for me to get involved with my community. It allows me to share my personal experiences with students, which hopefully generates enthusiasm of both a technical and social nature."
-Paul Magri, GM Electrical Engineer

"FIRST is a measure of our team's achievement. We strive and work hard for 6 weeks to move toward this goal. Nothing is better than knowing that your hard work has paid off."
-Leah Allen, Grade 12

"FIRST is an opportunity to learn and intellectually grow in a hands-on environment."
-Rebecca Philipose, Former Member

"FIRST provides us with an excellent medium to come together as a team, school, and community to not only further our technical knowledge relating to robotics, but to develop so many other skills and form great memories that will last a lifetime."
-Adam Bulkiewicz, Grade 12

"FIRST is where to use problem-solving methods to maintain well-being in society!"
-Ajay Maru, Former Member

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