FIRST: The Organization

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a multinational non-profit organization, that aspires to transform culture, making science, math, engineering, and technology as cool for kids as sports are today. FIRST was founded in 1989 by Dean Kamen, inventor of the Segway Human Transporter. FIRST operates the FIRST Robotics Competition in which teams of high school students, sponsored and assisted by local companies and volunteers, design, assemble, and test a robot capable of performing a specified task in competition with other teams. FIRST also runs the FIRST LEGO League, for children 9-14 years old, and FIRST Place, an innovative science and technology center, including a hands-on children's science museum.

FIRST was founded on partnerships with businesses, educational institutions and government. Many Fortune 500 companies provide funding, in-kind donations and volunteers to support the program.

  • FIRST: The Organization - Here is a brief introduction to the FIRST program, its mission, its impact on the community, etc.
  • History of Purdue FIRST Programs - A brief history of Purdue FIRST Programs, including when we started, and why we are here.
  • Our Vision and Mission - The vision of Purdue FIRST Programs and what we hope to accomplish.
  • Executive Committee - Meet the members of the student executive board and the faculty advisory board.
  • FAQ - Frequently asked quesitons about Purdue First Programs
Purdue FIRST Programs · Civil Engineering Building G216D · 550 Stadium Mall Drive · West Lafayette, IN 47906-2051 · Phone: (765) 496-TECH · Fax: (765) 496-8324