FIRST is an acronym meaning For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology. FIRST was founded in 1989 to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. Based in Manchester, NH, the not-for-profit public charity designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math, while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills. Dean Kamen, the founder for FIRST had a vision: “To create a world where science and technology are celebrated. Where young people dream of becoming science and technology heroes”. The FIRST Robotics Competition combines the excitement of sport with science and technology to create a unique varsity sport for the mind. FRC (First Robotics Competition) helps high-school-aged young people discover the rewarding and engaging world of innovation and engineering. The FIRST Robotics Competition stages short games played by remote-controlled robots. The robots are designed and built in 6 weeks (out of a common set of basic parts) by a team of high-school-aged young people and a handful of engineers-mentors. The students pilot the robots on the field. Each school year, teams are formed in the fall. Competitions take place in March and April. The FIRST Robotics Competition Regional events are typically held in university arenas. They involve 40 to 70 teams cheered by thousands of fans over two and a half days. A championship event caps the season. Referees oversee the competition. Judges present awards to teams for design, technology, sportsmanship and commitment to FIRST.

Text used with permission from FIRST.