FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is an innovative program designed to motivate young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology and engineering by building self-confidence, knowledge and life skills.

An offshoot of FIRST, the FIRST Robotics Competition brings together teams of professionals and high school students to competitively solve an engineering design problem in an intense arena. The competition began 10 years ago with 28 teams and today has more than 800 teams participating nationwide and internationally. There are currently 14 Oregon FIRST Robotics teams throughout the state.

FIRST receives economic and professional support from corporate America, colleges, universities, businesses, and individuals, as well as government organizations such as NASA, through their Robotics Education Project. This support represents a cooperative team effort by students, teachers, communities, corporations, and the government while helping to prepare and create a strong future workforce. The FIRST competition demonstrates the many opportunities available in the technological fields and that the basic concepts of science, math, engineering, and invention are exciting and interesting.