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We are dedicated to nurturing the spark of curiosity in young minds. We provide a dynamic platform for students of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to dive into the fascinating world of STEM. Through a wide array of programs, competitions, and hands-on experiences, we empower our participants to:
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Learn: Our educational programs engage students in practical learning, helping them acquire essential STEM skills, from coding and robotics to engineering and physics.
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Innovate: We foster a culture of innovation, encouraging participants to think critically, solve real-world problems, and design solutions that can change lives.
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Collaborate: Teamwork is at the heart of everything we do. FIRST Chesapeake brings together students, mentors, volunteers, and sponsors to create a supportive and inclusive community that thrives on collaboration and diversity.
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Inspire: Through our events and challenges, we aim to inspire a lifelong passion for STEM, fueling the aspirations of young dreamers who dare to reach for the stars.
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INSPIRING
TOMORROW'S
INNOVATORS
OUR GOAL
Empowering Youth through STEM
Our Story
Founded on the belief that every child has the potential to change the world, FIRST Chesapeake has been a cornerstone of STEM education since 1999. We are part of the global FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) network, and our roots run deep within the vibrant communities of the Chesapeake region.
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Join Us in Shaping the Future
FIRST Chesapeake has made a lasting impact on thousands of lives. We’ve seen students blossom into confident leaders, engineers, and scientists. Our alumni have gone on to pursue careers in STEM fields, shaping the future of innovation and discovery. We take immense pride in knowing that we’ve played a part in their journeys.
Whether you’re a student eager to explore the world of robotics, a mentor looking to share your expertise, or a sponsor passionate about investing in tomorrow’s innovators, FIRST Chesapeake welcomes you with open arms. Together, we can inspire, educate, and shape the future.
Are you ready to be part of the FIRST Chesapeake journey? Let’s inspire tomorrow’s innovators, together.
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WHO WE ARE
Meet the Team
FIRST Chesapeake is powered first and foremost by a dedicated community of volunteers. This network of passionate folks play an important role in shaping young minds and inspiring students to achieve. The team below are the only employees of the foundation who partner with our community to inspire the next generation.
Alex Bryant
Executive
Director
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Shelly Stoddard
Director of
FTC
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Isaiah Marriner
Director of
FRC
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PRESS
FIRST in the News
Anne Shade
Director of
Operations
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Amber Driesman
FLL Program Manager
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Matthew Glennon
Technology
Manager
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