The Transformative Impact of FIRST Programs on Texas Youth: A Call for Sponsors and Volunteers

At FIRST in Texas, our mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders and innovators by engaging them in exciting, mentor-based programs that build STEM skills, inspire innovation, and foster well-rounded life capabilities. Our programs, which include the FIRST® Robotics Competition, FIRST® Tech Challenge, and FIRST® LEGO® League, have made an undeniable impact on the lives of thousands of students in Texas, shaping future leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers.

According to a comprehensive FIRST Longitudinal Study, students who participate in FIRST programs are more likely to pursue higher education, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, and are more likely to engage in STEM careers than their peers. These findings resonate deeply with our work here in Texas, where the need for a well-educated and skilled workforce is critical for our future economic growth.

Key Findings from the FIRST Longitudinal Study:

• STEM Engagement: FIRST participants are 2.4 times more likely to show interest in STEM subjects and activities compared to their non-FIRST peers.
• STEM Identity: Students who engage in FIRST are 2.3 times more likely to develop a strong STEM identity, meaning they see themselves as capable of succeeding in science and technology fields.
• Higher Education and Career Aspirations: 75% of FIRST participants are more likely to pursue STEM careers, and they are significantly more likely to apply for and complete postsecondary degrees, including advanced STEM degrees.
• 21st Century Skills: In addition to technical skills, students in FIRST gain essential soft skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and leadership, which are highly valued in today’s competitive job market.

The Impact in Texas: Building the Workforce of the Future

The need for highly skilled professionals in Texas is growing exponentially, particularly in industries such as engineering, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. FIRST in Texas programs are designed to meet this need by giving students across the state hands-on experiences in these fields, from the Rio Grande Valley to the Panhandle.

The challenge we face, however, is ensuring that all students, regardless of their geographic location or financial situation, have the opportunity to participate in these transformative programs. While FIRST in Texas has made tremendous strides in building equity and accessibility, there is still much work to be done to eliminate the barriers that prevent some students from accessing these life-changing opportunities.

Breaking Down Barriers to Participation

One of the biggest challenges to expanding FIRST programs in Texas is the geographic and financial barriers that prevent some students from accessing these opportunities. In many rural areas of Texas, schools lack the resources or funding to establish and maintain robotics teams. Similarly, educators who host teams after school often face a lack of resources, from financial support for competition fees to equipment and materials for building robots.

We believe that every student in Texas, no matter where they live or their financial background, should have access to the benefits of FIRST programs. That’s why we’re calling on community leaders, corporate partners, and individuals to join us in this mission. With additional support, we can remove these barriers and give more students the opportunity to develop the skills they need to succeed in the workforce of the future.

The Need for Sponsors: Help Us Build a Stronger Future

As we expand our programs across Texas, we need additional sponsors to ensure that our students and educators have the resources they need to thrive. By partnering with FIRST in Texas, sponsors have the unique opportunity to make a direct impact on the future of Texas. Your support will help provide:

• Financial Assistance: Covering the costs of competition fees, materials, and travel for underfunded teams.
• Educational Resources: Offering training, mentorship, and professional development for educators who dedicate their time to leading teams after school.
• Technology and Equipment: Supplying teams with the tools and technology needed to design, build, and program their robots.
• Expansion of Programs to Underserved Areas: Ensuring that students in rural and low-income areas of Texas have access to FIRST programs.

Through partnerships with businesses and organizations like Texas Workforce Commission, Toyota, Panasonic, Valero, CITGO, Texas Instruments, NI / Emerson, and others, we’ve been able to provide millions of dollars in support for Texas teams—but the demand continues to grow.

With additional sponsors, we can extend our reach and make sure every young Texan who wants to participate in FIRST has the opportunity to do so.

The Power of Volunteers: Join the Movement

FIRST programs wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated work of volunteers who help mentor teams, organize events, and serve as role models for our students in Texas. We need volunteers from all walks of life—whether you’re an engineer, teacher, business professional, or community leader—your skills and experience can make a difference.

As a FIRST in Texas volunteer or mentor, you will:

• Mentor Students: Provide guidance to young people as they navigate the challenges of robotics and innovation.
• Support Events: Help organize and run competitions, ensuring they are exciting, safe, and memorable experiences for everyone involved.
• Inspire Future Leaders: Share your knowledge and enthusiasm for STEM with students, helping them see the many possibilities for their future careers.

The commitment is flexible, and the impact is immeasurable. Volunteers are at the heart of what makes FIRST in Texas programs succeed. Your time and expertise can help us develop the next generation of STEM leaders in Texas.

We Build Stronger Together in Texas

Through our collective efforts—sponsors, volunteers, educators, and community leaders—we can build a brighter future for Texas. We are laying the foundation for a workforce that will not only meet the demands of tomorrow but will also lead Texas in innovation, problem-solving, and global competitiveness.

By investing in our youth through FIRST programs, we are giving them the tools and confidence they need to solve the challenges of the future, from environmental sustainability to technological advancements.

Now is the time to take action. Join us in making a difference in the lives of students across Texas. Sign up today as a sponsor or volunteer on our website and be a part of this exciting movement to build a stronger, more innovative Texas.

Together, we can make STEM education accessible to all and create a legacy of success that will shape Texas for generations to come.