Inspire Young Minds

This not-for-profit organization was founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen. The organization's vision is to create a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people can dream of becoming science and technology heroes.

FIRST Robotic Challenge (FRC) challenges teams of young minds 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. FIRST redefines winning for these students because they are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is secondary.

FIRST also offers the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC), a more affordable and accessible program for high school students, the FIRST Lego League (FLL) for 9 to 14-year-olds and the Junior FIRST Lego League (FLL) for 6 to 9-year-olds. Teams from the FRC, FTC and FLL programs will be at the booth demonstrating their robots.