What is FIRST®?
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen as a way to spark interest and motivate students to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Based in Manchester, NH, the 501(c)(3) designs accessible, innovative, and challenging programs that educate and build a foundation of knowledge and skills. First embraces teamwork and "Gracious Professionalism", which encourages high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and promotes individuals who act with integrity and empathy.
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The mission of FIRST® is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders and innovators by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build STEM skills, inspire innovation, and foster well-rounded life capabilities, including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.
What is FRC?
First Robotics Competition
FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is an internationally recognized robotics competition that combines the rigors of science and technology with the excitement of sports. (The ultimate Sport for the Mind) Participants say it is "the hardest fun you'll ever have."
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Under strict rules, limited resources, and an intense six-week time limit, teams of students are challenged to raise funds, design a team "brand," hone teamwork skills, and build and program industrial-size robots to play a difficult field game against like-minded competitors.
Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team. Each season ends with exciting matches and a Championship tournament. It's as close to real-world engineering as a student can get.
This is the official game animation for the 2020 FIRST Robotics Competition game, Infinite Recharge. The game was announced Saturday, January 4, 2020.