It's way more than building robots.

FIRST Tech Challenge teams (grades 6-8) are challenged to design, build, program, and operate robots to compete in a head-to-head challenge in an alliance format.
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.

WHAT IS FTC?

FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is designed for middle school students using a sports model competition format. Teams compete on a 12' x 12' field in alliances against other teams. The robot kit is reusable from year to year and can be coded using various levels of Java-based programming (typically starting with Block programming).

Teams focus on:

• Designing, building, and programming robots

• Following the engineering design process

• Creating an Engineering Book to document their journey

• Community outreach and professional connections

• Developing teamwork and collaboration skills

🚨REQUIRED🚨 - At least one parent/student is required to support the team as a Coach or Mentor.

Minimum Requirements:

• Transportation for your student

• Positive support for the team

• Adult mentoring and keeping students on task

Other Support Opportunities:

• Administrative support (engineering notebook, portfolio)

• Outreach coordination

• Judge presentation assistance

• Pit decoration guidance

• Event logistics support

Greater parent involvement leads to better student experiences and team outcomes.

COACHING OPPORTUNITIES

Why Coach?

• No teams exist without coaches (2 committed coaches required per team)

• Coach's student(s) guaranteed spot on team; and support Coordinator for roster formation

• Manage team schedule and location

• Highly rewarding experience