FIRST and FIRST in Michigan Resources
US FIRST
FIRST's website is full of information about the FIRST family of Programs, as well as information about the current game, and includes a portal for volunteers and sponsors.
FIRST in Michigan
FIRST in Michigan (FIM) is the all-volunteer organization that has the exclusive right to run all FIRST programs in the state of Michigan. FIM piloted the FRC "District Model" that gives Michigan FRC Teams the opportunity to play more, and pay less. Teams in Michigan follow the rules set by FIRST in Michigan as well as FIRST.
FIRST Manual
The FIRST Manual contains nearly every bit of information that you could possibly need, from the Game, to the Robot, Team information and beyond.
Team Updates (Manual Updates)
Team Updates are released twice each week after FIRST Kickoff, when the game is announced. These updates contain updated information on the game rules, robot restricts. These are critical, and must be manually downloaded.
FIRST Safety Manual
The FIRST Safety Manual will keep you informed of the required and suggested safe practices for your events, as well as guidelines for keeping your meeting location safe for Students, Mentors, and guests.
FIRST Calendar
FIRST's Calendar of important dates will ensure that your team is on time with submission deadlines for Team-related items, as well as awards submissions.
TIMS
The Team Information Management System (or TIMS) is the online portal for FIRST Team Leaders and Mentors. This is where you go to fill out the online Consent & Release Form, edit your Team's profile, and apply for some awards.
STIMS
The Student Team Information Management System (or STIMS) is where Students go to fill out the Consent & Release Form for people under the age of 18. Students also use STIMS to complete Student-submitted awards.
Order Robot Materials Online
AndyMark
AndyMark is the best location to obtain many FIRST-approved robot parts, and also the only location to fulfill your FIRST Choice part orders. AndyMark ships next-day to most of the Mid-West, and to the Continental US within 4 days.
McMaster Carr
McMaster Carr carries a large variety of nuts, bolts, fasteners, and stock for every-day Robot building needs. You can order materials to be delivered Next Day at regular UPS Ground Rate, or pick up at your local McMaster Carr location for no extra charge.
Software Downloads
Autodesk
Autodesk Inventor is available as a free educational use download for all FIRST Teams. Autodesk also provides lots of online resources for the FIRST community.
Networking Resources
Chief Delphi
Chief Delphi is an online forum of information that is contributed by members of the FIRST community. It is not regulated by FIRST, but managed by Team 51, the Wings of Fire from Pontiac, Michigan (formerly Team 47, Chief Delphi)