Governor Stein Proclaims FIRST Robotics Day

FIRST Robotics Day 

2026

By The Governor Of The State Of North Carolina

A Proclamation

Whereas, the State of North Carolina acknowledges how Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education will positively affect the growth of the youth in our community. Instilling a passion for STEM in youth is vital in order to prepare for the future of our state's workforce and to ensure our societal well-being; and 

Whereas, FIRST Robotics, otherwise known as For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, is one of the international organizations that primarily uses team-based robotics programs to prepare our youth for the future; and

Whereas, students from 4 to 18 years old can participate in thought-provoking challenges at three levels - FIRST Lego League, FIRST Tech Challenge, and FIRST Robotics Competition - which can help develop many of their skills and generate interest in future career paths, specifically in STEM-based fields; and 

Whereas, robotics involves mentors and volunteers of all ages, and the State of North Carolina  recognizes and extends deep gratitude to all who assist in supporting the growth and development of robotics students as they cultivate a passion in STEM fields; and 

Whereas, participation in Robotics allows students to gain a myriad of technical and soft skills, from learning how to operate machinery to instilling a love for helping one's community; and 

Whereas, April 29^th marks the first day of the FIRST Robotics World Championship for FIRST teams across the globe - a day filled with excitement, creativity, and critical thinking skills; and 

Whereas, FIRST Robotics Day not only encourages increased support for the work of FIRST Robotics but also recognizes the imperativeness of enhancing STEM education for youth; and

Whereas, all North Carolinians are highly encouraged to celebrate this day where we take a moment to celebrate the impact that FIRST Robotics and STEM education has had on our state's youth;

Now, Therefore, I, Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim April 29, 2026, as “FIRST Robotics Day” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all residents.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this seventeenth day of March in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-sixth and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.