FIRST is...

Based in Manchester, NH, FIRST is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization devoted to helping young people discover and develop a passion for science, engineering, technology, and math. Founded over 30 years ago by inventor Dean Kamen, FIRST continues to grow and encourage more students to enter the STEM workforce pipeline. The annual programs culminate at one of the two the FIRST Championship events - a celebration where teams win recognition, gain self-confidence, develop people and life-skills, make new friends, and perhaps discover an unforeseen career path. Read more about the vision, mission and philosophies of FIRSThere. 

FIRST North Carolina is...

FIRST North Carolina is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization based in North Carolina and the Program Delivery Organization for the FIRST Robotics Competition in North Carolina. 

OUR MISSION

The mission of FIRST North Carolina aligns with the mission of FIRST - to provide life-changing high-school robotics programs that give young people the skills, confidence, and resilience to build a better world.

FIRST North Carolina wants students to thrive in a high tech world with an unbridled passion for skilled trades, engineering, computer science, and corporate problem-solving.  FIRST's hands-on approach enables students to "test drive" these areas to see where their interests and aptitudes fit.

OUR VISION

“To transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people dream of becoming science and technology leaders.”  ~Dean Kamen, Founder

OUR PURPOSE

 

 

OUR IMPACT

The FIRST Robotics Competition program introduces high-school students to real-world engineering and coding skills in an engaging, inclusive, and creative learning environment. The Evaluation Group conducted an impact study to assess our impact on students in North Carolina with a particular focus on rural counties. Click here to see the full 2024 report.

 

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

In our mission to inspire the next generation of engineers, computer scientists and innovators, FIRST North Carolina is committed to creating an environment that is inclusive and respectful. We aspire to do this by being intentional in our diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. Our goal is to expand the awareness of and access to FIRST programs in underserved/underrepresented populations, ultimately fulfilling our belief that all students deserve the opportunity to innovate.