FIRST in Vermont is a statewide nonprofit organization founded in 2022. As an affiliate to FIRST, FIRST in Vermont serves as a workforce development pipeline, cultivating the next generation of technology leaders through high quality robotics programs, mentorship, and community engagement. Our mission is to inspire the next generation of Vermont’s technology leaders by developing vibrant, accessible programs supported by a network of mentors, sponsors, and educators. We are dedicated to:

• Starting new FIRST Robotics teams

• Sustaining existing teams

• Raising VT’s FIRST participation rate to one of the highest in the nation

• Producing exciting competitive events to showcase student STEM talent

FIRST robotics teams are based on three age-appropriate programs that span grades K-12:

• FLL (FIRST LEGO League) for students in grades K–8 using LEGO-based robots

• FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) for grades 7–12 to design and program mid-sized metal robots in a more accessible kit format

• FRC (FIRST Robotics Competition) for high schoolers in grades 9–12 to build massive, industrial-sized robots with professional adult mentors

Want to volunteer for one of our events? Check out our Early Bird Volunteer Form.

Read our Executive Summary to learn more about FIRST in Vermont’s impact on STEM education in the state.

Explore our Sponsorship Levels or Make a Donation to directly support youth STEM education here in Vermont.