In a world driven by technology, innovation, and problem-solving, there’s no better way to prepare the next generation for success than through hands-on experience. FIRST Robotics is a global organization that does exactly that—empowering students to develop STEM skills, teamwork, and creativity through competitive robotics challenges.

What is FIRST Robotics?

Founded in 1989 by inventor and entrepreneur Dean Kamen, FIRST Robotics is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring young people’s interest in science, engineering, and technology. The program offers different levels of competition, from elementary school to high school, where students design, build, and program robots to complete specific challenges. These competitions are not just about robots; they emphasize teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation—skills that are essential in today’s workforce.

Siemens and Electro-Matic: Proud Sponsors of FIRST Robotics Teams

Siemens and Electro-Matic are proud sponsors of four incredible FIRST Robotics teams: the Robostangs, Thunderchickens, TechTown Detroit, and Hybrid Hornets. These talented teams exemplify innovation, teamwork, and the spirit of STEM education. We are honored to support their journey as they continue to push the boundaries of robotics and engineering. We are excited to shine a spotlight on each team individually in the near future—sharing their unique stories, challenges, and successes. Stay tuned as we celebrate their hard work and dedication to shaping the future of technology!

The Different FIRST Programs

FIRST Robotics offers four main programs tailored to different age groups:

• FIRST LEGO League (FLL) (Ages 4-16): Designed for younger students, this program uses LEGO robotics kits to teach problem-solving, coding, and teamwork.
• FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) (Grades 7-12): Middle and high school students design and build smaller robots to complete tasks in a cooperative yet competitive environment.
• FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) (Grades 9-12): The flagship program, where high school students work with mentors to design, build, and program industrial-sized robots for intense competitions.
• FIRST Global: A worldwide robotics competition promoting international collaboration and problem-solving.

Why FIRST Robotics is Important

Hands-on Learning & Real-World Skills

Unlike traditional classroom learning, FIRST Robotics immerses students in engineering, programming, and design through hands-on projects. Participants gain experience using professional tools and software while solving complex problems—preparing them for future careers in STEM fields.

Teamwork & Collaboration

FIRST competitions emphasize the concept of "Coopertition®"—a mix of cooperation and competition—where teams help each other while striving for victory. This fosters collaboration, leadership, and interpersonal skills that are valuable in any career.

Scholarships & Career Opportunities

FIRST Robotics is a gateway to scholarships and career opportunities. Many colleges and universities offer scholarships specifically for FIRST participants, and major companies like NASA, Boeing, and Google support the program, often recruiting directly from it.

Encouraging Diversity in STEM

FIRST is dedicated to making STEM accessible to all students, regardless of background. The program actively promotes inclusion, helping bridge the gender and diversity gaps in engineering and technology fields.

Whether you're a student, educator, mentor, or sponsor, there are many ways to participate in FIRST Robotics:

• Join a Team: If you're a student, find a local team or start one at your school.
  Become a Mentor: Professionals in engineering, programming, and business can volunteer to mentor teams.
• Sponsor a Team: Companies and organizations can support teams through funding, equipment, or mentorship.
• Volunteer at Events: FIRST competitions rely on volunteers to judge, referee, and organize events.

FIRST Robotics is more than just a competition; it’s a movement that shapes future engineers, innovators, and leaders. By fostering creativity, teamwork, and a passion for STEM, FIRST is preparing the next generation to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.