What is FIRST® Tech Challenge?
It’s way more than building robots.
FIRST Tech Challenge teams (up to 15 team members, grades 7-12) are challenged to design, build, program, and operate robots to compete in a head-to-head challenge in an alliance format. Guided by adult coaches and mentors, students develop STEM skills and practice engineering principles, while realizing the value of hard work, innovation, and working as a team.
The robot kit is reusable from year to year and can be coded using a variety of levels of Java-based programming. Teams design and build robots, raise funds, design and market their team brand, and do community outreach to earn specific awards. Participants are eligible to apply for $80M+ in college scholarships.
The really cool thing about FIRST Tech Challenge is…all skill levels are welcomed and needed, technical or non-technical.
Please note FIRST does not match children to existing teams due our privacy policy. We encourage those looking for a team to contact their local schools, libraries, or youth organizations who may have a team in place or interest in starting one.
Photo by: Austin Mariasy
What does every FIRST Tech Challenge team need?
- 2 or more adult Mentors who are willing and motivated to coach the team through the build and competition season, and beyond!
- Other adults can volunteer to help with administration, fundraising, community outreach, technical advising, and other tasks.
- A suitable meeting place and space to design and build a robot about the size of a microwave oven.
- A standard kit of robot parts and a common set of game and robot rules issued by FIRST Tech Challenge.
- A budget and a fundraising plan.
- The desire to learn, explore, strategize, build camaraderie, share ideas and talents, make new friends, be accepted, and HAVE FUN!
When does FIRST Tech Challenge happen?
The FIRST® Tech Challenge season starts in May, when teams generally form and registration opens. Season kick-off is in early September when the season’s game is announced. The design and build season runs from September to January. Tournament season varies by region and can begin as early as October and continues through April. State and Regional Tournaments advance teams to Super-Regional Championship Tournaments, and winners earn spots at FIRST Championship at the end of April. There are also many off-season events where teams participate, strategize, hone their skills, learn new technology, meet other teams, and have fun!
What is the time commitment?
Mentors or adult Volunteers meet with their team at least once per week during the build and competition season (September – April). Many mature teams also meet throughout the school year, and some compete in off-season events during the summer. You, your family, and your available free time can decide together how much time you can devote to the program.
As a team member, the same applies. Students meet at least once per week from Mid-September through April. Like any sport or other after-school activity, the more time you invest, the better you will become at your task(s).
Any special skills required?
All skill levels are welcomed and needed, technical and non-technical. Teams need all kinds of skills to succeed, so what are you good at? Chances are we have a job for you, and we’ll probably teach you a few new ones while you’re with us.
Student and adult team members are encouraged to bring any skills they already have, like programming, electronics, metalworking, graphic design, web creation, public speaking, videography, and many more. FIRST Tech Challenge welcomes every student, with or without special skills.
Photo by: Austin Mariasy
If you’re interested in starting a FIRST Tech Challenge team, please visit: https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/ftc/start-a-team
If you have any questions, please reach us at info@firstindianarobotics.org