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FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is an exciting and hands-on way to experience science and technology. Each year, the FIRST organization develops a robotics-based challenge, or “game,” that is focused on a very practical goal. After the annual challenge has been announced, it is then up to the teams of students to create the best robotics solution possible. Unlike with traditional two-dimensional learning, students must use their brains and their hands to compete on an even playing field against others who have access to the same set of resources.

Teams of up to 10 students find ways to design, build, and program robots from a standard set of parts. In the weeks leading up to the competitive event, teams will propose and test theories, prototype examples, and program their robots. Teamwork and group problem solving, as well as the ability to meet deadlines, are all hallmarks of successful FTC teams.

However, achieving success during the competition is not limited to the amount of points scored while on the robotics playing field. FTC also recognizes and rewards teams that use a disciplined thought process in terms of their overall game strategy and robot design. Additionally, FIRST also celebrates outreach, community involvement, and cooperation between teams and mentors. These achievements are recognized with six separate awards at each event. The highest award, the Inspire Award, takes all of these aspects into consideration.