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What is FIRST?

FIRST® is a global nonprofit that inspires young people to become science and technology leaders through hands-on robotics programs that build confidence, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

FIRST is a progression of hands-on robotics programs that grows with students—from their earliest experiences with STEM through high school. Each program features age-appropriate challenges that inspire creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving while making STEM exciting and accessible.

 

Every season brings a new game and a new challenge. Teams design, build, and program robots to compete in exciting events where innovation, perseverance, teamwork, and FIRST's core values—including Coopertition® and Gracious Professionalism®—are celebrated. Whether students are building with LEGO® elements or designing industrial-sized robots, FIRST encourages them to think creatively, solve real-world problems, and discover what they're are capable of.

For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST®)

What is KY FIRST?

KY FIRST Robotics is the official support and delivery organization for FIRST® robotics programs in Kentucky. We work with schools, community organizations, volunteers, universities, and industry partners to expand access to hands-on robotics programs across the Commonwealth.

 

Our focus is growing and supporting FIRST teams. Through robotics, students develop technical skills, leadership, teamwork, confidence, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for whatever comes next.

Find the Right FIRST Program

From elementary school through high school, FIRST offers robotics programs that grow with students at every stage of their journey. 

FIRST LEGO 
League

Students explore design, build, coding and innovation while solving real-world challenges through hands-on learning.











 

Grades K-8

 

FIRST Tech Challenge

Teams design, build, and program robots to compete in exciting events while developing engineering, communication,and leadership skills.

 

 


 
 





 

Grades 7-12

 

FIRST Robotics Competition

High school students work alongside mentors to design, build, and compete with industrial-sized robots in high-energy competitions.

 

 


 
 





 

Grades 9-12


 

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