Core Values
The FIRST® Core Values emphasize friendly sportsmanship, respect for the
contributions of others, teamwork, learning, and community involvement
and are part of our commitment to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a
culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. The FIRST Community expresses
the FIRST philosophies of Gracious Professionalism® and Coopertition®
through our Core Values:
Discovery Innovation Impact
We explore new We use creativity and We apply what we learn
skills and ideas. persistence to solve problems. to improve our world.
Inclusion Teamwork Fun
We respect each other and We are stronger when We enjoy and celebrate
embrace our differences. we work together. what we do!
Gracious Professionalism Coopertition
Coopertition is displaying unqualified kindness and respect
Gracious Professionalism is part of the ethos of FIRST.
in the face of fierce competition. It is founded on the
It’s a way of doing things that encourages high-
concept and a philosophy that teams can and should help
quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and
and cooperate with each other even as they compete.
respects individuals and the community.
Coopertition involves learning from teammates. It is teaching
It is part of pursuing a meaningful life. One can add
teammates. It is learning from Mentors. And it is managing
to society and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing
and being managed. Coopertition means competing always,
one has acted with integrity and sensitivity.
but assisting and enabling others when you can.
Learn more about FIRST at www.firstinspires.org
FIRST,® the FIRST® logo, Gracious Professionalism,® and Coopertition® are registered trademarks of For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST). ©2022 FIRST. All rights reserved. FI104