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Inspiring Tomorrow's Innovators

At FIRST Chesapeake, we ignite the flames of innovation, foster a love for science and technology, and empower the next generation of problem solvers.

Our mission is simple yet powerful: to inspire young minds, encourage collaboration, and build a brighter future through the exploration of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

Our Story

Founded on the belief that every child has the potential to change the world, FIRST Chesapeake has been a cornerstone of STEM education since 1999. We are part of the global FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) network, and our roots run deep within the vibrant communities of the Chesapeake region.

Empowering Youth through STEM

We are dedicated to nurturing the spark of curiosity in young minds. We provide a dynamic platform for students of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to dive into the fascinating world of STEM. Through a wide array of programs, competitions, and hands-on experiences, we empower our participants to:

  • Learn: Our educational programs engage students in practical learning, helping them acquire essential STEM skills, from coding and robotics to engineering and physics.
  • Innovate: We foster a culture of innovation, encouraging participants to think critically, solve real-world problems, and design solutions that can change lives.
  • Collaborate: Teamwork is at the heart of everything we do. FIRST Chesapeake brings together students, mentors, volunteers, and sponsors to create a supportive and inclusive community that thrives on collaboration and diversity.
  • Inspire: Through our events and challenges, we aim to inspire a lifelong passion for STEM, fueling the aspirations of young dreamers who dare to reach for the stars.

Join Us in Shaping the Future

 Over the years, FIRST Chesapeake has made a lasting impact on thousands of lives. We’ve seen students blossom into confident leaders, engineers, and scientists. Our alumni have gone on to pursue careers in STEM fields, shaping the future of innovation and discovery. We take immense pride in knowing that we’ve played a part in their journeys.

Whether you’re a student eager to explore the world of robotics, a mentor looking to share your expertise, or a sponsor passionate about investing in tomorrow’s innovators, FIRST Chesapeake welcomes you with open arms. Together, we can inspire, educate, and shape the future.

Explore our programs, get involved, and help us continue to spark the fires of innovation in the Chesapeake region. Join us on this thrilling adventure as we strive to build a brighter, more innovative tomorrow.

Are you ready to be part of the FIRST Chesapeake journey? Let’s inspire tomorrow’s innovators, together.

meet the team

Powered by our people

Alex Bryant
Executive Director
Shelly Stoddard
Director of FIRST Tech Challenge
Isaiah Marriner
Director of FIRST Robotics Competition
Glen Davis
Logistics Manager
Anne Shade
Logistics Associate
Phyllis Tyndall
Accounts Manager
Matt Glennon
Technology Manager
Amber Driesman
FIRST Senior Mentor for Maryland
FIRST Senior Mentor for Virginia

Board of Directors

Cristie Neller
President

Vice President Administrative Services, BHE GT&S
Dr. Cedric Sims
Vice President

Senior Vice President, Enterprise Innovation and Integration, MITRE
Bettina Garcia Welsh
Treasurer

Chief Financial Officer, ICF International
lakshmi Meyyappan
Secretary

Managing Director, Emerging Capabilities at Groundswell
Chris Bjornson
Chief Information Officer, Accenture Federal Services
Robert Franceschini
Senior Vice President, Deputy Chief Technology Officer, Leidos
David Greenberg
Head of Deal Pursuit, Google Cloud
James Kresge
Chief Technology Officer, West Creek Financial 
Doug Lawrence
Site Vice President, Surry Power Station, Dominion Energy
Latitia McCane
Director of Education, The Apprentice School
Scott McKay
Retired Chief Information Officer and Executive Vice President, Operations and Quality, Genworth Financial
Dean Roberts
Market Analysis Executive, Rolls-Royce, North America
Tom Poole
Senior Vice President Digital Payments and Identity, Capital One
Brian Snodgrass
Vice President, Enterprise Applications and Development at Serco