To transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people dream of becoming science and technology heroes. -Dean Kamen, Founder
FIRST® is a non-profit organization founded by Dean Kamen in 1992, whose main goal is to help young people discover and develop a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Annual international robotics competition result in the students wining recognition, gaining self-confidence, developing people and life skills, making new friends, and sometimes discovering unforeseen careers.
What is FIRST Tech Challenge?
Following a sports model, FIRST Tech Challenge teams (10+ members) design, build, program, and operate robots of their own design to play a floor game in an alliance format. Guided by adult Coaches and Mentors, students develop STEM skills and practice engineering principles, while realizing the value of hard work, innovation, and sharing ideas. Awards are given for the competition as well as for community outreach, design, and other real-world accomplishments. Participants have access to tens of millions of dollars in college scholarships.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jln45FMoNI&feature=youtu.be
Students get to:
- Apply real-world math and science concepts
- Develop problem-solving, organizational, and team-building skills
- Compete and cooperate in alliances and tournaments
- Compete for a spot at the World Championships
- Qualify for over $13.5 million in college scholarships