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FIRST Australia

Logo for FIRST Australia

What is FIRST ®? FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is the world’s leading youthserving nonprofit advancing science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Founded by inventor Dean Kamen in 1989, FIRST has evolved into a global movement by engaging millions of people with a proven game-changer for preparing kids to solve the world’s greatest problems. FIRST programs inspire innovation and leadership through engaging, hands-on robotics challenges developed to ignite curiosity and passion in students in grades K-12. FIRST builds powerful mentorship relationships between young people and STEM professionals, helping kids gain confidence to explore the innovation process while they learn valuable science, engineering, technology, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. FIRST creates the people who will change the world – today and tomorrow. FIRST offers four international programs for K-12: the FIRST ® Robotics Competition for Grades 9-12 (ages 14 to 18); the FIRST ® Tech Challenge for Grades 7-12 (ages 12 to 18); the FIRST ® LEGO League for Grades 4-8 (ages 9 to 16; ages vary by country); and the FIRST ® LEGO® League Jr. for Grades K-4 (ages 6 to 10). FIRST also operates a research, development, and training facility called FIRST® Place™ at its headquarters in New Hampshire. FIRST is More Than Robots. FIRST participation is proven to encourage students to pursue education and careers in STEM-related fields, inspire them to become leaders and innovators, and enhance their 21 st century work-life skills. FIRST in Australia has been pioneered by Macquarie University, in strategic partnership with Ford, Google, The Walt Disney Company, LEGO Education, Bechtel, Rockwell Automation, and many other corporate sponsors who support STEM in Australia. There are now teams from all levels in every state & territory across the country, with volunteer opportunities year-round!