A Science and Technology Program That Is Transforming Our Culture and Changing Young People’s Minds About What They Want To Be When They Grow Up.

In reviewing some of the greatest pioneering programs in STEM education, I thought it would be valuable to share a program that I believe to be one of the most inspiring out there. Many of you may be aware of this program and some of you may even be involved in it. (We-Google Lunar X PRIZE have even blogged about it before in earlier posts.) For those that aren’t aware of this program, I wanted to take some time and summarize it, along with posting a few new facts. Founded in 1989 by Dean Kamen, FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a nationwide 501c program that organizes adults and youth to work together in a mentor based program that fosters science, engineering and technology skills. Youth build self confidence, communication and leadership skills through their innovative designs of robot constructions. Depending on which program youth are involved in, robots can be designed using common kits, modular platforms, LEGO MINDSTORM technologies or LEGO bricks. Who supports FIRST and how many youth are involved? In cooperation with 90,000 volunteers and over 3,500 corporations, education and professional organizations, this program currently reaches 212,000+ students worldwide. FIRST Program Age/Grade Groups- ...