By building a robot from scratch, students gain valuable hands-on experience in fields like computer programming, engineering, computer-aided design (CAD), fabrication, and welding. Through team outreach and fundraising members learn skills in business, marketing, photography, film, graphic design, and public speaking. FIRST programs also teach analytical and collaborative skills such as data analysis, problem solving, project management, communication, and leadership.

As Montana businesses struggle to fill tech positions, Missoula Robotics guides young people into STEM-related fields and skilled trades. Some Missoula Robotics students have landed internships with local companies while still in high school. Since our launch in 2009, many team members have gone on to pursue careers as mechanics, architects, programmers, and engineers for companies like Boeing, Microsoft, and Cushing Terrell.

We believe strongly in giving back to our community, which is why Missoula Robotics also mentors students in other FIRST programs like FIRST LEGO League for upper elementary and middle school, and community groups like the Cub Scouts and the YMCA. The team volunteers in the community with organizations like the Missoula Food Bank. We also engage in outreach to interest non traditional and diverse students in the program who might not find robotics on their own.

In addition to building technical skills, students gain lifelong values taught by FIRST, such as teamwork, gracious professionalism and coopertition (cooperation amongst competitors). Students learn to work together as diverse individuals, each using their unique skills to work towards a common goal.