CA ACR157

Declares September 15, 2012, to be California FIRST Day in recognition of the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) organization

FIRST operates mentor-based programs that develop science, engineering, and technology skills in youth as young as six years old, emphasizing self-confidence, communication, and leadership

FIRST participants are significantly more likely to pursue higher education and major in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics fields

In 2012, high school FIRST participants could apply for 736 individual scholarships totaling over $15 million from a network of more than 3,500 corporations, institutions, and individuals

FIRST alumni have served as the next generation of engineers and innovators in California over the past 20 years