Hawaii FIRST Robotics :: Providing Students Across the Hawaiian Islands With Hands-On, Team-Based Robotics

Hawai‘i FIRST Robotics is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing students across the Hawaiian Islands with hands-on, team-based robotics experiences through the global FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) programs. It serves as the regional coordinator for multiple FIRST initiatives, aiming to inspire young people in STEM fields by fostering teamwork, innovation, problem-solving, and gracious professionalism. The organization supports programs tailored to different age groups, from elementary to high school, and organizes local events, competitions, training, and outreach to build a thriving robotics community in Hawaii.

Hawai‘i FIRST Robotics offers four main programs with robot-based activities:

• FIRST LEGO League Explore (Grades 2-4): An introductory program where teams use LEGO sets to build models and explore real-world issues through play-based engineering.
• FIRST LEGO League Challenge (Grades 4-8): Entry-level robotics where students design, build, and code LEGO robots to complete missions based on annual themes, developing programming and collaboration skills.
• FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) (Grades 7-12): Teams design, build, and program mid-sized robots to compete in complex challenges, emphasizing engineering design, strategy, and iteration.
• FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) (High School): The flagship program where teams build full-sized 125-pound robots capable of sophisticated tasks in alliance-based competitions. Hawaii teams regularly participate in regional events and advance to world championships.

These programs emphasize not just robot construction but also research, outreach, and community impact. Students gain skills in mechanical design, electronics, programming, project management, and marketing. Hawai‘i FIRST Robotics supports teams with resources, mentorship opportunities, fundraising guidance, and events like the annual Hawaii FRC Regional. It highlights student achievements, such as teams competing at world championships and alumni pursuing STEM careers. The organization promotes inclusivity and works with schools, volunteers, sponsors, and partners to expand access across islands.

As a non-profit, Hawai‘i FIRST Robotics relies on donations, sponsorships, and volunteers. It celebrates student milestones (e.g., college commitments) and showcases Hawaii’s strong representation at national events. The focus remains on empowering the next generation of innovators through engaging, competitive robotics experiences.