The work that Ricardo and his team at NI, a FIRST^® Strategic Partner, are doing with autonomous driving and advanced driver-assistance systems is getting the world closer to the global goal of zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion in the automotive industry.

Read about how Ricardo is making an impact in the world of STEAM through his career >> 

Kate Sample, FIRST donor, alum, volunteer, and staff member, has been a part of the FIRST community for close to 20 years. Her journey started on a FIRST^® Robotics Competition team, and she has volunteered in a variety of roles for each of the FIRST programs. She now serves as an Education Specialist at FIRST and donates monthly to support the FIRST mission. 

"The FIRST program changed my life. Being a student in the program, I gained so many skills both technical and holistic, and had the opportunity to be exposed to so many career paths," Kate said. "Giving, even a small amount each month, I know that I am helping to contribute to a great cause and that this money is ultimately providing students just like me with their own life-changing experience." 

Watch Kate and other FIRST alumni discuss the impact of FIRST on YouTube >>

FIRST Robotics Competition student Daffny Cardoso has been working closely with Regina Martyrum High School in India to share her robotics knowledge. With the help of her teammates on the Steel Hawks Robotics Team, she has developed and executed custom curriculum to the students at the school detailing how to build robots. 

"My experience with the students was amazing. The students communicated with me when they had difficulties and collaborated to teach each other different skills. The students were able to build the robot entirely on their own." 

Read more about Daffny's story >>

FIRST volunteers play an important role in shaping young minds and inspiring students to create the future. From coaching and mentoring to volunteering at events around the world, there are so many opportunities to share your passion for STEM as a volunteer.

Learn more about volunteering with FIRST >>

We're thrilled to share that out More Than campaign, which set out to dismantle labels and promote self-esteem through STEM, has been selected as a finalist for the Digiday Greater Good Awards! 

We want EVERY kid to believe in themselves and know that they are more than the stereotypes or "boxes" society assigns them. Here's to all that's possible when young people believe in themselves and have supportive adults in their corners. 

Check out the More Than campaign on the FIRST website>>