About FIRST
“To create a world where science and technology are celebrated...where young people dream
of becoming science and technology heroes..”
~ Dean Kamen, FIRST Founder
When Dean Kamen founded FIRST in 1989, his main goal was to develop a program For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology. FIRST wanted to revolutionize engineering and science, promote them in the eyes of society, and to show kids that engineers and scientists become the leaders of tomorrow. This is the premise upon which Dean Kamen carried out his dream. From its well-known 1992 beginnings in a high school gymnasium in Manchester, New Hampshire with only 28 teams, the extent to which FIRST has expanded to create an impact on the lives of so many kids is truly incredible. Now in its 17th season, FIRST has been succeeding in all arenas. 89% of all FIRST students attend college, compared to the national average of 53%. FIRST helps students connect with corporations, which is advantageous to both sides by providing students with internships and offering companies highly qualified and dedicated young adults that will undoubtedly lead a new generation of engineers.
On top of this, FIRST takes the time to emphasize various aspects of competition besides "winning". The Woodie Flowers Award, inspired by MIT professor Dr. Woodie Flowers, was specially created to honor the mentors that put so much effort, hard work, and dedication into the success of their students and their teams. Students are encouraged to help one another, even when on opposing alliances and different teams, an idea that FIRST refers to as Gracious Professionalism. Besides the national champions that are commemorated each year, the winners of the Chairman’s Award are the most highly regarded, for the main reason that it is awarded for community service, helping others, and all of the other values that FIRST hopes to instill in its students. With $9.6 million offered in FIRST scholarships by colleges and universities across the U.S. and Canada, the fact that others are recognizing and acknowledging the benefits of this organization is enough to certify that FIRST is clearly having a positive impact on high school students that are involved. The progress and improvements that this program strives for are essential for its growth, and as these continue each year, FIRST leaves us with one last message: It is not enough to simply reach a goal… it is the way in which that goal is reached that matters.
FIRST Facts (in 2008)
- 37,500 High School Students
- 1564 Teams
- 2000 Sponsoring Companies
- 41 Regional Events
- World Championships in Atlanta
