About FIRST

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 heroes."
--Dean Kamen, Founder

Mission
"Our 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."

FIRST's Founder and President, Dean Kamen with The Holy Cows

Description
FIRST stands for “For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology”. The program was founded by Dean Kamen and Woodie Flowers in 1989 in order to inspire kids to pursue interests in technology fields. Dean Kamen is most well known for his invention of the Segway, a human transport machine that that rides on two wheels. His partner, Woodie Flowers is a well known professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The organization has expanded to have multiple competitions for children in elementary school, until the end of high school. FIRST is dedicated to engaging young minds and building teamwork, leadership, and self confidence.