Lucasfilm, parent company Disney, and FIRST^® announced they are teaming up once again for the 2020-2021 youth robotics season, FIRST^® GAME CHANGERS^SM powered by Star Wars: Force for Change. Newly recognized FIRST Strategic Partner Disney and Lucasfilm are providing additional financial support as well as mentorship and storytelling opportunities to inspire the next generation, strengthening and diversifying interest in science and technology careers.

FIRST announced that Dr. Janell N. Catlin has joined its leadership team and will report to the President of FIRST as Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Dr. Catlin will play a pivotal role at the nonprofit organization, helping to support and build on its mission to serve an inclusive and diverse community.

Ready for another exciting FIRST @ Home activity? Learn programming basics with Amazon in this year’s Amazon Cyber Robotics Challenge. Recommended for grades 4 and above, see if you can code an Amazon Hercules robot to deliver your friend’s birthday present on time. Join the free, 3-hour virtual challenge for a chance to win $250 in classroom supplies, and become an #AmazonFutureEngineer.

On November 12, FIRST partner Tallo is hosting a free virtual college fair specifically for FIRST students (U.S. only). We will introduce you to colleges who are looking for FIRST students because on your teams you have learned the skills and gained the necessary experience to be successful in the future. We’re using a new app, Ping by Tallo, to match you with colleges based on how your interests and preferences align with theirs. It’s a fast and easy way to learn about new schools with great programs, choose who you want to connect with, and email their representatives a connection request.

Sign up today! Choose the "FIRST Fair" when you sign up.

This season, sport a FIRST Peace Love Robots mask and apparel from the exclusive collection of FIRST GAME CHANGERS gear.
Shop the FIRST Store.

With team registration open for all FIRST programs, everyone at FIRST has been working hard to make sure each participant has a valuable, enjoyable experience this season as we continue to inspire students as innovators and leaders. We’ve developed resources and solutions to help bring STEM learning and holistic skill building to teams regardless of learning environment, including extending the season, COVID-19 modification guidance for FIRST programs, and free FIRST @ Home resources.

The legacy of Dr. Woodie Flowers, FIRST EAB Chair Emeritus and Distinguished Advisor, lives on as the FIRST community continues to embody his words and actions through Gracious Professionalism, the Woodie Flowers Award, the Woodie Flowers Memorial Grant, and reminders to #WalkLikeWoodie. Read more on the FIRST Inspire blog.