FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition is a program for high school students interested in the world of engineering. This program offers high school students the opportunity to engage in a unique sport that involves creativity, cooperation, communication, and much more. Robotics not only allows students to learn how to build and program a robot, but it also helps improve their communication skills, team spirit, time management, and their ability to overcome difficult obstacles.
Every year, a new game is created, and under strict regulations, students are to construct and program with the help of mentors, a robot that is able to compete. After the six-week building period, teams go against each other in the regional or district competitions to compete and test their skills, robots, and determination.
Dean Kamen founded this program, FIRST Robotics, in 1989 and is currently an inventor, entrepreneur, and an advocate for STEM. For more information about FIRST, click here.