What Is FIRST?

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a global organization that aims to inspire young people to become leaders and innovators in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Founded by inventor Dean Kamen, FIRST brings together students, mentors, and volunteers from around the world to participate in hands-on robotics competitions. These competitions challenge students to apply their creativity, engineering skills, and teamwork in building robots to compete against other teams. FIRST’s mission is to not only ignite passion for STEM but to also help develop the critical life skills that students need to succeed in the 21st century.

Through FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), high school students work with mentors to design, build, and program robots that compete in exciting challenges. FRC teams are judged not only on their robot’s performance but also on their ability to work together, display Gracious Professionalism, and contribute to their community. The competition provides students with opportunities to gain real-world experience in engineering, problem-solving, and leadership while fostering a spirit of Coopertition—the idea that teams can compete fiercely while helping each other grow.

At Pair of Dice Robotics, we are proud to be part of this global movement, using FIRST’s values to shape the next generation of engineers, programmers, and leaders. By participating in FIRST, our team members gain invaluable skills, access to scholarships, and the chance to collaborate with like-minded peers from around the world. FIRST inspires students not just to build robots, but to build their futures.