FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) • Team Building • Engineering Excellence
Our competitive robotics program offers three levels of FIRST Inspires competitions, allowing students to grow from elementary through high school in increasingly complex robotics challenges.
Team Size: 2-10 students | Time: 4-6 hours/week | Season: August - December
Students use LEGO robotics kits to solve real-world problems. Teams design, build, and program autonomous robots while researching innovative solutions to annual challenge themes.
Team Size: 6-15 students | Time: 8-12 hours/week | Season: October - March
Our flagship program where students design, build, and program sophisticated robots using metal components, motors, and sensors. Teams compete in regional and state championships with potential for national advancement.
Our FTC Teams:
Team Size: 15-30 students | Time: 15-20 hours/week | Season: January - April
The ultimate high school robotics challenge. Teams build full-size robots (up to 125 lbs) using industrial-grade materials and compete in high-energy matches. This is engineering at a professional level with substantial scholarship opportunities.
CAD modeling, prototyping, mechanical systems, and professional design processes.
Java, Blocks, and Python for robot control and autonomous operations.
Collaboration, communication, project management, and gracious professionalism.
Critical thinking, iterative design, troubleshooting, and creative solutions.
Students take ownership of their robots and competition strategy. They elect team captains, assign roles based on interests, and make all strategic decisions. Adult mentors provide guidance and safety oversight but students lead the way.
| Program | Season Timeline | Key Events |
|---|---|---|
| FLL | August - December | Kickoff (Aug), Qualifiers (Oct-Nov), Championships (Dec) |
| FTC | October - March | Kickoff (Oct), League Meets (Nov-Jan), Regionals (Feb), State (Mar) |
| FRC | January - April | Kickoff (Jan), Build Season (6 weeks), Regionals (Mar), Championships (Apr) |
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is the world's leading youth robotics program. Students gain:
Thanks to grants and community support, participation is completely free. We cover all costs including registration, materials, tools, software, uniforms, and competition expenses. Students may participate in fund-raising activities.