What is FIRST?
FIRST, which stands for “For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology,” is a nonprofit organization founded by Dean Kamen in 1989. Structured around a high-school robotics competition, the FIRST Robotics Competition is much more than just a competition, combining gracious professionalism with technology to create an environment that fosters a deeper appreciation for science and technology. Professional mentors, both technical and non-technical, partner with teams to teach students valuable engineering and professional skills while helping the team succeed. In addition to the FIRST Robotics Competition, FIRST encompasses other programs: the FIRST Tech Challenge, designed for high school teams that may not have the resources to participate in the FIRST Robotics Competition, and FIRST Lego League Challenge and Explore Programs. For More Information, Visit FIRSTInspires.org
What is FIRST Robotics Competition?
Combining the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. We call FIRST Robotics Competition the ultimate Sport for the Mind. High-school student participants call it “the hardest fun you’ll ever have.”
Under strict rules, limited time and resources, teams of students are challenged to raise funds, design a team “brand,” hone teamwork skills, and build and program industrial-size robots to play a difficult field game against like-minded competitors. It’s as close to real-world engineering as a student can get. Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team. Each season ends with an exciting FIRST Championship.
Roaring Riptide: FRC Team 4118
Even if you’re not interested in robotics or engineering, joining a FIRST robotics team might still be for you! Being on a FIRST Robotics competition team is much like being part of a small business. Skills needed to make a FIRST team successful include: entrepreneurship, design, art, photography, acting/performing, marketing, business, mechanics, engineering, computer-aided design, programming, leadership, spirit, electrical, strategy, safety, and so much more!
The students on Roaring Riptide: FRC Team 4118, strive to raise awareness and excitement in STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math – through our local community, state, and national outreach efforts. We believe our outreach efforts help to foster the acquisition of the softer skills such as teamwork, work ethics, flexibility, interpersonal skills, leadership skills, and adaptability.