The “FIRST pipeline” is a structured pathway designed to engage students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) from a young age and guide them through progressively advanced levels of competition and learning.

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​FIRST Robotics Competition teams often support or mentor FIRST Tech Challenge teams as part of their outreach and community involvement. This involvement helps create a strong robotics community and serves as a way to nurture future FIRST Robotics Competition participants. By engaging in FIRST Tech Challenge, students develop foundational skills and an interest in robotics, which can lead them to progress through FIRST Robotics Competition. This pipeline not only fosters a continuous interest in STEM but also builds a robust skill set that benefits students academically and professionally.