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FIRST:
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For Inspiration
and Recognition of Science and
Technology
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Founders
Dean Kamen
Inventor Segway and
IBot Mobility Systems
Dr. Woddie Flowers
MIT Professor
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VISION:
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"To transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people
dream of becoming science and technology heroes."
Dean Kamen, Founder
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MISSION:
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FIRST's mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting
mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and
that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication and leadership.
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GRACIOUS
PROFESSIONALISM:
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Dr. Woodie Flowers, FIRST National Advisor and Pappalardo Professor Emeritus of Mechanical Engineering,
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, coined the term "Gracious Professionalism."
Gracious Professionalism is part of the ethos of FIRST. It's a way of doing things that encourages
high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects individuals and the community.
With Gracious Professionalism, fierce competition and mutual gain are not separate notions. Gracious
professionals learn and compete like crazy, but treat one another with respect and kindness in the process.
They avoid treating anyone like losers. No chest thumping tough talk, but no sticky-sweet platitudes either.
Knowledge, competition, and empathy are comfortably blended.
In the long run, Gracious Professionalism is part of pursuing a meaningful life. One can add to society
and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing one has acted with integrity and sensitivity.
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COMPETITONS:
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FIRST hosts 4 types of competitions:
- FRC - First Robotics Competition (High School)
- FTC - First Tech Competition (High School)
- FLL - First Lego League (ages 9 - 14)
- JFLL - Junior First Lego League (ages 6 - 9)
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