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Reach out to Maryland FIRST with questions about robotics programs, events, volunteering, or sponsorship opportunities across the state.
Maryland FIRST Robotics serves as the statewide operational partner for the international FIRST organization, bringing hands-on STEM education to young people from elementary through high school. Through programs like FIRST LEGO League for younger students and the more advanced FIRST Tech Challenge and FIRST Robotics Competition for teens, participants learn engineering, coding, and problem-solving skills in a team-based environment. Each season begins with a kickoff event where new challenges are revealed, sparking months of design, building, and iterative testing. Teams across Maryland gather at qualifiers and regional championships to showcase their robots, celebrate achievements, and connect with peers who share a passion for science and technology.
Volunteers are the backbone of Maryland FIRST, providing essential support at every level from local workshops to statewide championships. Whether serving as a mentor for a school team, judging at a competition, or helping with event logistics, volunteers make it possible for thousands of students to participate in robotics each year. Training sessions are offered regularly to prepare volunteers for their roles, covering everything from rules and scoring to hands-on technical guidance. The community welcomes retired engineers, college students, educators, and anyone with an interest in fostering the next generation of innovators. No prior robotics experience is required to get involved and make a meaningful difference.
Sponsorship and community partnerships help Maryland FIRST expand access to robotics programs across the state, ensuring that teams in every region have the resources they need to succeed. Contributions support equipment purchases, workshop materials, event venues, and scholarships for teams facing financial barriers. Local businesses, educational institutions, and civic organizations all play a vital role in sustaining the robotics ecosystem. In return, partners gain visibility among a motivated network of students, families, and educators who are actively engaged in STEM. The organization also collaborates with other nonprofits and government agencies to align robotics education with broader workforce development goals in Maryland.
Throughout the year, Maryland FIRST hosts a variety of events beyond the main competition season, including expos, summer workshops, and coach training days. These gatherings introduce new families to the programs, give returning participants a chance to deepen their skills, and strengthen the statewide robotics community. The annual championship event draws teams from across Maryland for a celebration of innovation, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Social media channels and the website calendar keep the community informed about upcoming deadlines, rule updates, and volunteer opportunities. Alumni of the programs often return as mentors or event staff, reflecting the lasting impact that robotics participation has on young people's academic and career paths.
Maryland FIRST