FIRST in Oklahoma

MISSION

The mission of FIRST is to provide life-changing robotics programs that give young people the skills, confidence, and resilience to build a better world.

FIRST® is committed to inspiring young people to be science and technology leaders and innovators by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering, and technology skills, encourage innovation, and foster well-rounded life capabilities, including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.

Dean Kamen, the founder of FIRST, is a prolific inventor, entrepreneur, and tireless advocate for science and technology. His passion and determination to help young people discover the excitement and rewards of science and technology are the cornerstones of FIRST. For over 30 years, Kamen has resolutely led the growth of FIRST to where it is now universally recognized as the leading, not-for-profit STEM engagement program for kids worldwide.

The FIRST in Oklahoma Team is a collaboration of schools, businesses, professional organizations, and universities with the goal of giving every student in our area the opportunity to participate in FIRST from kindergarten through high school graduation.

Oklahoma students participate in this exciting and educational program at all grade levels, ages K-12. Our FIRST Robotics programs provide under-resourced schools with after-school opportunities to learn STEM and business skills, building tomorrow’s tech-savvy workforce. These lessons are learned through hands-on explorations in mechanical assembly, Computer Aided Design, computer programming, presentation skills, and how to work in a professional team environment. A FIRST team can even be like a small technology start-up company for students!

These opportunities are made possible by the many volunteers and sponsors in Oklahoma, providing experienced professional mentoring, materials, and manufacturing.