FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded in 1989, to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. The mission of FIRST is 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. There are four robotics programs for all grade levels that students can join.

• First Lego League Jr. (grades 2nd-3rd)
• First Lego League (grades 4th-6th)
• First Tech Challenge (grades 7th-8th)
• First Robotics Competition (grades 9th-12th)

Hatboro-Horsham High School is apart of FIRST Robotics competion in the Mid-Atlantic region. In January a task is given out to all the teams in the Mid-Atlantic region of what the robot’s mission is then the teams get to work. Students are on an intense six-week deadline where they are challenged to raise funds, design a team “brand”, build and program industrial-size robots to play a difficult field game against other teams. Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team.

After teams assemble their robot there are six weeks of competition. Hatboro-Horsham High School hosted week one of the competition. Once week six comes that is the Mid-Atlantic District Championship.

The competition isn’t all about the robots though. Several different awards are handed out during the competition such as professionalism, team spirit, entrepreneur, motor controllers and many more.

FIRST gives the opportunity for students to pursue careers in STEM-related fields to inspire them to become leaders and innovators while enhancing their 21st-century work-life skills.

If you have anymore questions contact the Hatters Robotic Advisor Eric Zygmont.

For more information check out our team website.