FIRST stands for "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology" and was founded in 1989. Since then, they have upheld the same mission statement, “to inspire 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, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership”. As of now, there are over 100,000 teams participating in first competitions, with student’s age ranging from 5-18, as competitions run at all difficulty levels. Their 4 leagues are First Lego League Junior, First Lego League, First Tech Challenge, and First Robotics Challenge.

More information can be found at their website firstinspires.org