For more than 20 years, students from across Missouri have participated in FIRST robotics programs K-12. These tried and true programs have a consistent and profound impact. This is not another science fair; students build complex robotic machines, gaining knowledge on industry standard programs in fields like programing, computer aided design, and metal machining, putting them years ahead of there peers and launching them into prosperous careers that last a lifetime.

The value that these programs provide is unmatched, but they are not without cost. Teams across our great state have until now been completely self-sustained and self-funded, endlessly fundraising to keep the lights on and young minds at work. For many teams in urban or suburban areas, this has been manageable, but in countless rural Missouri communities, financial barriers stand in the way of bringing these world-class programs to students. In 2024, we took a stand, crafting a legislative bill that, if passed, would establish a grant program that could not only sustain the future of current FIRST Robotics programs in Missouri, but create a pathway for hundreds more of our states schools to bring there own programs to life. So join us, as we create a Missouri that will bring these incredible opportunities to every student.