What is FIRST?

What is FIRST?

For
Inspiration and
Recognition of
Science and
Technology

FIRST is an educational engineering program that offers unique challenges to children of all ages.

Each year, a new game is released in January around a certain theme. Every game has an arena and objectives inspired by this central theme. Teams are given six to eight weeks to construct a robot capable of completing some or all of these objectives.

Following the Build Season are six weeks of regional competitions where many teams play this year’s game. Teams compete in three-team alliances for points. This unique structure teaches students vital cooperation skills and reflects the FIRST philosophies of Coopertition and Gracious Professionalism. Throughout the competition, we follow the FIRST Core Values of discovery, innovation, impact, inclusion, teamwork, and fun.

FIRST also awards scholarships to seniors who have consistently participated in a team during their high school career.

FIRST has three programs, each for specific grade levels:

  • FIRST Lego League (FLL) – grades 4 to 8
  • FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) – grades 7 to 12
  • FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) – grades 9 to 12

We participate in the third program, FRC.

Official FIRST website: https://www.firstinspires.org

Scholarship opportunities: https://www.firstinspires.org/scholarships