First Tech Challenge: The Ultimate Guide to FTC Robotics

The First Tech Challenge (FTC) is an international robotics competition that brings together students from all over the world to design, build, and program robots. FTC is part of the larger FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) family, which is committed to inspiring young people to become innovators and leaders in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). If you’re interested in robotics or looking for an exciting challenge, the First Tech Challenge offers an incredible platform to hone your engineering, programming, and teamwork skills.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the First Tech Challenge—from the competition structure and rules to how you can get involved. Plus, we’ll explain how the Robotix Institute (RXI) can help students prepare for FTC through our robotics programs, free trials, and summer camps.

What is the First Tech Challenge?

The First Tech Challenge (FTC) is a global robotics competition for students in grades 7-12 (ages 12-18), where teams of up to 15 members design, build, and program robots to compete in head-to-head challenges. The robots are built using a reusable kit of parts, powered by Android technology, and can be coded using block-based programming or more advanced languages like Java. The competition aims to inspire young minds in the fields of science and technology while promoting teamwork, innovation, and problem-solving.

The FTC is part of the FIRST family of competitions, which also includes the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) and FIRST LEGO League (FLL). Each year, the First Tech Challenge introduces a new and unique game that requires students to work together, think critically, and use their engineering skills to build robots that can perform specific tasks.

To learn more about the First Tech Challenge, visit the official First Tech Challenge website.

Competition Structure of the First Tech Challenge

The First Tech Challenge is divided into several phases, each of which is designed to test different aspects of robotics, including design, programming, and strategy. Here’s an overview of how the competition is structured:

1. Game Announcement

Each season begins with the announcement of a new FTC game. The game is designed to challenge students to think creatively, as they must build robots capable of completing various tasks, such as picking up objects, moving through obstacles, or interacting with other robots. Teams must carefully analyze the game to understand the best strategies and approaches for winning.

2. Building the Robot

Once the game is announced, teams start designing and building their robots using the FTC kit of parts. This kit includes motors, sensors, servos, and a control system, which students must use to create a functional robot that meets the game’s requirements. Teams also have the freedom to customize their robots with additional parts, making the design process highly creative.

3. Programming the Robot

In the First Tech Challenge, robots must be programmed to perform autonomous and driver-controlled tasks. The programming can be done using block-based coding (great for beginners) or advanced languages like Java. The autonomous phase requires the robot to operate without human control for a specific period, completing tasks based on pre-programmed instructions. The driver-controlled phase allows students to manually control the robot to score points and achieve objectives.

4. Competitions and Events

Teams participate in local, regional, and national competitions throughout the FTC season. At these events, teams go head-to-head in a series of matches where their robots compete to score the most points. Teams are also evaluated on their engineering design process, programming, and teamwork. The top teams from each region advance to the FIRST Championship, where they compete on a global stage.

5. Judging and Awards

In addition to the robot competition, FTC teams are judged on several other criteria, such as teamwork, gracious professionalism, and the engineering design process. Teams can win awards for various achievements, including innovation, design, control systems, and community outreach. The judging process encourages students to not only focus on technical skills but also develop leadership and collaboration abilities.

Benefits of Participating in the First Tech Challenge

The First Tech Challenge offers numerous benefits for students interested in robotics and STEM:

• Hands-on STEM Learning: FTC provides students with real-world experience in robotics, programming, and engineering.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Teams must work together to design robots that can solve complex challenges, encouraging critical thinking and creative problem-solving.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: FTC emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication, and leadership, as students must work closely with their peers to achieve their goals.
• Scholarship Opportunities: Participants in FIRST competitions are eligible for a wide range of scholarships, internships, and networking opportunities.
• Real-World Applications: FTC gives students a glimpse into careers in engineering, computer science, and technology, helping them prepare for future success.

How to Get Involved in the First Tech Challenge

If your child is interested in robotics and wants to participate in the First Tech Challenge, the first step is to join or form an FTC team. Teams can be formed at schools, community centers, or through independent groups. FTC teams typically consist of 10-15 members who work together to design, build, and program robots. Once the team is established, they can begin preparing for the upcoming season by learning basic robotics skills and familiarizing themselves with the FTC kit of parts.

At Robotix Institute (RXI), we offer a variety of programs that help students prepare for competitions like the First Tech Challenge. Our robotics programs, summer camps, and free trials provide hands-on learning experiences that teach the skills needed to excel in FTC. Whether your child is a beginner or an experienced builder, our instructors can guide them through the process of building and programming robots for competitive success.

Get Started with Robotics at Robotix Institute (RXI)

Ready to get started with robotics and prepare for the First Tech Challenge? At Robotix Institute (RXI), we offer comprehensive robotics programs that teach students how to build, program, and compete with robots. Our programs are designed to develop essential skills in STEM, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork. Whether your child is interested in the First Tech Challenge or simply wants to explore robotics, we have the perfect program for them.

• Sign up for a free trial to experience our engaging robotics programs firsthand.
• Check out our robotics summer camps for hands-on learning and project-based activities.

Help your child unlock their potential in robotics by enrolling them in our programs and preparing them for exciting opportunities like the First Tech Challenge. At RXI, we’re committed to helping students develop the skills they need to succeed in STEM and beyond.