The organization has made an impact in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education around the world. According to a Brandeis University Study, the students involved in FIRST^® are more than three times as likely to major specifically in engineering, more than ten times as likely to have an apprenticeship, internship, or co-op job in their freshman year of college, and are more than twice as likely to volunteer in their communities. FIRST^® is shaping unique and successful individuals who not only go on to succeed in their educational and professional futures, but who also give back to the community.

FIRST^® is an acronym that stands for For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, a non-profit organization that promotes science, technology, and engineering education worldwide. There are 4 levels of FIRST^® for students K-12 including Junior FIRST^® LEGO^® League (Jr.FLL), FIRST^® LEGO^® League (FLL), FIRST^® Tech Challenge (FTC), and FIRST^® Robotics Competition (FRC).

FIRST^® was founded with the vision of changing our culture. It's mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders. It gets students across the globe involved in the program which has been called "21st century learning." The program educates students about science and technology while also building important life skills such as innovation, leadership, self-confidence, and so much more.

FIRST^® also promotes an ideal called "Gracious Professionalism", which describes a way of working that enourages high quality work, but also emphasizes the value of others and respects individuals and the community. This is an ideal that students take with them into their continued educations and lives, and helps to build character and responsibility in young adults.