“FIRST is More Than Robots. The robots are a vehicle for students to learn important life skills. Kids often come in not knowing what to expect – of the program nor of themselves. They leave, even after the first season, with a vision, with confidence, and with a sense that they can create their own future.” – Dean Kamen
Mission
Our Mission is to inspire young people across Louisiana to become leaders in science and technology by engaging them in exciting, mentor-driven programs that foster skills in engineering, innovation, and problem-solving. Through hands-on experiences, we aim to empower students with the self-confidence, communication, and leadership abilities needed to succeed in all areas of life.
Our Vision: We envision a future where Louisiana’s youth are passionate about science and technology, pursue higher education at our state’s top institutions, and contribute to the growth of a thriving, innovative workforce. By investing in our students today, we strengthen Louisiana’s future, ensuring that our best resource—our youth—drives the state’s economic development and technological advancement.
More About FIRST Tech Challenge?
Following a sports model, FIRST Tech Challenge teams (up to 15 members) design, build, program, and operate robots of their own design to compete in a head-to-head challenge in an alliance format. Guided by adult Coaches and Mentors, students develop STEM skills and practice engineering principles, while realizing the value of hard work, innovation, and sharing ideas. Awards are given for the competition as well as for community outreach, design, and other real-world accomplishments. Participants have access to tens of millions of dollars in college scholarships.
Students get to:
More About FIRST®
FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a global nonprofit that aims to inspire young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through engaging, hands-on robotics competitions. Founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen, FIRST® consists of three k-12 STEM programs, which provide students with opportunities to design, build, and program robots while developing critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Grades Pre K-8 | Ages 4-16
FLL introduces STEM to children through fun, exciting hands-on learning using LEGO® technology.
Grades 7-12 | Ages 12-18
FTC students work together with their mentors to design and build robots to compete in a new dynamic and exciting challenge each season.
Grades 9-12 | Ages 14-18
FRC teams build industrial-sized robots to play an action-packed game on a themed field as part of a three-team alliance.
The organization emphasizes “Gracious Professionalism®,” encouraging participants to do their best while treating others with respect, and “Coopertition®,” promoting collaboration even in competition. By fostering innovation and STEM learning, FIRST also offers students access to scholarships, career connections, and a global community of peers and professionals.
®2024 First Tech Challenge Louisiana