Empowering the next generation of inclusive STEM leaders.

We’re thrilled to share some fantastic news about the inaugural FIRST For All fellowship program that kicked off in California in October 2023. This timely initiative aimed to empower FIRST students with the skills and knowledge to foster inclusivity and diversity on their teams and in their communities.

Let’s dive into some highlights:

1. Impressive Participation: We were thrilled by the enthusiastic response from students across California. The inaugural cohort brought together a diverse group of passionate FIRST participants, eager to learn and make a difference. Our 38 graduates were honored at their Regional events, each receiving a special FIRST For All pin in recognition of their commitment to fostering inclusivity.
2. Engaging Workshops: The program featured four live online workshops covering crucial topics like unconscious bias, psychological safety, recruiting and retaining girls in STEM, and even a Q&A session with JPL CEO Dr. Laurie Leshin!
3. Action Plans in Motion: Participants developed creative action plans to implement their learnings. These ranged from launching new outreach programs to creating women-sized team shirts, beginning podcasts to planning for off-season events with girl-only drive teams and pit crews…and so so so much more! 
4. Positive Outcomes: The fellowship fostered a strong sense of community, equipped students with valuable insights, and led to the implementation of inclusive practices within teams.
5. Rave Reviews: A whopping 90% of participants said they would highly recommend the program.

Hear what the participants had to say.

But here’s the best part – we’re gearing up for Year 2!

Mark your calendars: Applications for the second FIRST For All Fellowship will open at the end of September. We’ve taken feedback from our inaugural cohort to make the program even better:

• Workshops will run during the off-season
• Expect 90-minute workshops every other week from mid-October to mid-December
• We’ll be inviting more mentor engagement throughout the program

We can’t wait to welcome a new cohort of change-makers and continue fostering a more inclusive STEM community. Stay tuned to the FIRST California website for more details on how to apply and be part of this amazing journey! The program is open to California FIRST Robotics Competition students in grades 9-11.

Remember, diversity drives innovation, and together, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future in STEM. 

The FIRST For All Fellowship is calling your name!