~ Dean Kamen, Founder
FIRST’s Mission
Our mission is to inspire young people to be science
and technology leaders, 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.
Dean Kamen is an 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
Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology).
FIRST was founded in 1989 to inspire young
people's interest and participation in science and technology.
Based in Manchester, NH, the 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit public
charity designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate
young people to pursue education and career opportunities in
science, technology, engineering, and math, while building
self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills.
FIRST Values
Dr. Woodie Flowers, FIRST National
Advisor and Pappalardo Professor Emeritus of Mechanical
Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, coined the
term "Gracious ProfessionalismTM."
Gracious Professionalism is part of the ethos
of FIRST. It's a way of doing things that encourages
high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects
individuals and the community.
With Gracious Professionalism, fierce competition and
mutual gain are not separate notions. Gracious professionals learn
and compete like crazy, but treat one another with respect and
kindness in the process. They avoid treating anyone like losers.
No chest thumping tough talk, but no sticky-sweet platitudes
either. Knowledge, competition, and empathy are comfortably
blended.
In the long run, Gracious Professionalism is part of
pursuing a meaningful life. One can add to society and enjoy the
satisfaction of knowing one has acted with integrity and
sensitivity.
CoopertitionTM
CoopertitionTM produces innovation. At FIRST,
Coopertition is displaying unqualified kindness and respect in the
face of fierce competition. Coopertition is founded on the concept
and a philosophy that teams can and should help and cooperate with
each other even as they compete.
Coopertition involves learning from teammates. It is teaching
teammates. It is learning from mentors. And it is managing and
being managed. Coopertition means competing always, but assisting
and enabling others when you can.
FIRST works
closely with research and academic organizations to provide
tangible evidence of our impact on students’ education and
career choices.
