What is FIRST?

For students ages 6 to 18, it's the hardest fun you'll ever have.

For team mentors, coaches, and volunteers, it's the most rewarding adventure you'll ever undertake.

For sponsors, it's the most enlightened investment you could ever make.

FIRST is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization devoted to helping young people discover and develop a passion for science, engineering, technology, and math. Founded over 20 years ago by inventor Dean Kamen, the 2013/2014 FIRST season attraced more than 350,000 youth and more than 130,000 mentors, coaches, and volunteers from 56 countries. The annual programs culminate in an international robotics competition and celebration where teams win recognition, gain self-confidence, develop people and life-skills, make new friends, and perhaps discover an unforseen career path.