Located on Roosevelt Island, the NYC FIRST STEM Center at Cornell Tech is a hub for hands-on robotics and STEM learning. The Center supports FIRST teams and school communities across New York City, providing a professional environment where students design, build, and program innovative solutions.
With access to advanced tools, fabrication equipment, and collaborative workspaces, students develop technical skills in engineering, coding, and electronics while strengthening teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership abilities. Through workshops, build sessions, and competitions, the Center helps young people grow into confident, future-ready creators prepared for college and careers.
Access to the STEM Center and use of its equipment and resources is FREE, but requires a valid NYC FIRST Member Card. Member cards are issued to K–12 students in New York City, NYC FIRST alumni, and other participants in connection with NYC FIRST programs.
M train to Roosevelt Island Station on Weekdays from 6 am to 9:30 pm; F train to Roosevelt Island Station on Weekend and late night service; Roosevelt Island Tram (59th St & 2nd Ave); NYC Ferry; or Q102 bus. The RIOC Red Bus (free island shuttle) connects these stops to the Cornell Tech campus.
Paid parking is available in the Tata Innovation Center garage. Metered parking is available along Loop Road. A larger public garage is located at the Roosevelt Island bridge entrance.
The STEM Center is located on the 6th floor of the Tata Innovation Center on the Cornell Tech campus. Check in with building security upon arrival, take the elevator to the 6th floor, then turn right and follow the hallway to the NYC FIRST STEM Center.
Open hours are available for STEM Center member card holders from FRC and FTC teams. Access is subject to space availability, and workshops or other activities may reserve parts of the center.Hours may change based on programming, so please check for updates before visiting.
