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 2012-2013 FIRST® season attracted close to 300,000 youth and more than 100,000 Mentors, Coaches, and Volunteers from 60+ 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 unforeseen career path.
- For students aged 6-18, 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.
As part of a FIRST® team, kids get to apply math and science knowledge, solve problems, make decisions, communicate complex ideas, collaborate as part of a team, exercise leadership, manage resources, create and execute business plans – all essential skills in any successful technological enterprise.
FIRST® competitions and tournaments are celebrations by which communities convey the importance of their students’ achievements in science and technology. FIRST® celebrations are fun, energetic and filled with excitement.
In the same fashion that scholastic athletes experience the adulation of their communities, FIRST® programs celebrate students’ prowess in science and technology. Kids are inspired and motivated to succeed.
Our Founder, Dean Kamen
Dean Kamen is an inventor, entrepreneur, and tireless advocate for science and technology. His passion and determination to help young people discover the excitement and rewards of science and technology are the cornerstones of FIRST®. To learn more about Dean Kamen and FIRST®, please visit firstinspires.org.About FIRST® in Alabama
