About FIRST®
FIRST® Robotics refers to programs by the nonprofit organization For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST®) that introduce students to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) through robotics challenges and competitions. Founded by Dean Kamen, FIRST® aims to inspire young people to become science and technology leaders by offering mentor-based programs that build technical, teamwork, and leadership skills through engaging, hands-on experiences.
Programs
- FIRST® Lego® League Discover: For Pre-K to 1st grade students to spark early interest in STEM.
- FIRST® Lego® League Explore: For 2nd to 4th grade students to program and attend an exhibition.
- FIRST® Lego® League Challenge: For 4th to 8th grade students to build and compete as a team.
- FIRST® Tech® Challenge: For 7th to 12th grade students to build an 18″ by 18″ by 18″ competition robot from scratch.
- FIRST® Robotics® Challenge: For 9th to 12th grade students to build a competition robot from scratch no more than 4 foot tall.
2025-26 Decode
In FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC), teams are challenged to design, build, program, and operate a robot to compete against others in an alliance-format game. For this year’s Decode game, robots can be 18″x18″x18″ max and compete on a 12′ by 12′ playing field. They complete tasks to earn points, both autonomously and while being driver-controlled. This year, teams earn points by shooting “artifacts” into a goal, winning more points for having a correct pattern. From November-February, teams compete in meets and qualifying matches, with a state championship in March. The top teams will advance to the World Championship in Houston in April.