What is US First?

The FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is a high school robotics program designed to build not only science and technology skills and interests, but also self-confidence, leadership, and life skills among high school-aged youth. The FIRST Robotics Competition challenges teams of students and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions that involve not only the operation of the robots, but also presentation of a variety of other associated team activities, including computer animations, activities to increase the appreciation of science and technology throughout the school and community, and involvement in community service activities. The goals of the program include an increased awareness and interest in science and technology, increased college going and potentially a focus on science and engineering careers, and the development of a set of attitudes and skills described by the program as “gracious professionalism” – the ability to work together within a team and to work cooperatively with those on other teams, including potential competitors. For further information, please visit usfirst.org