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ROBOTS

2023-2024 CENTERSTAGESM presented by RTX

Raise the curtain on the power of design, creativity, and precision to create all new experiences in a spectacular new challenge.

In the CENTERSTAGE℠ presented by Raytheon Technologies challenge, debuting September 9, 2023, FIRST Tech Challenge teams will raise the curtain on the power of design, creativity, and precision to create all new experiences.

SEASON KICKOFF IS SEPTEMBER 9, 2023

Hashtag: #CENTERSTAGE

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FIRST Tech Challenge

Code, Design, and Compete
with Robots!

FIRST Tech Challenge students learn to think like engineers. Teams design, build, and code robots to compete in an alliance format against other teams. Robots are built from a reusable platform, powered by Android technology, and can be coded using a variety of levels of Java-based programming.

THE FTC IMPACT

FIRST Tech Challenge teams (2-15 members, ages 12-18) are challenged to design, build, program, and operate robots to compete in a head-to-head challenge in an alliance format. Participants call it “the hardest fun you’ll ever have!”

Guided by adult Coaches and Mentors, students develop STEM skills and practice engineering principles (like keeping an engineering notebook), while realizing the value of hard work, innovation, and sharing ideas. The robot kit is reusable from year-to-year and can be programmed using a variety of languages, including Java. Teams also must raise funds, design and market their team brand, and do community outreach for which they can win awards. Participants have access to tens of millions of dollars in college scholarships. Each season concludes with Super-Regional Championships and an exciting FIRST Championship.

Students Get To

  • Learn from professional engineers
  • Build and compete with a robot of their own design
  • Learn and use sophisticated software and hardware
  • Compete and cooperate in alliances and tournaments
  • Earn a place in the World Championship
  • Qualify for over $12 million in college scholarships

87%

Express Interest in Attending College

98%

Problem Solving Skills Increase

100%

Teamwork skills increase.

Essential Steps to Starting a FIRST Tech Challenge Team

We engage young people in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.

MD Basic

Build Your Team

Find and invite a few teammates (maximum 15) who want to be part of the robotics team. Be sure to emphasize that no technical skills are required, just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn! Recruit all kinds of talents, not just engineering and electrical.

Team Management Resources

MD Blob

ENLIST COACHES & MENTORS

Each team needs two or more adult lead coaches/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 skills, and other tasks. Most teams meet once to twice a week during the build and competition season, which typically runs from September through February.

Mentor Manual

MD Blob

Fundraising

Your team will need to build a budget and fund their goals. Recruit local businesses to sponsor you. Some of them may already have a relationship with FIRST®. We also have many fundraising opportunities you can explore, including grants for rookie teams.

Sample FTC Budget

MD Blob (1)

REGISTER & PLAY

Once registered, your team becomes a part of the worldwide FIRST® Tech Challenge community. You’ll begin receiving communications from FIRST®, along with a temporary team number in preparation for event registration.

Part of the registration process includes ordering the kit of parts and completing payment. (Please note that, until you click submit, you are not committed to becoming a team.)

2023-2024 FTC Events

Start your robot coding adventure now!

FIRST® Tech Challenge SIM Virtual Robotics Adventure

Learn how to program real robots using this virtual robotics programming platform.

News & Blog

OUR SPONSORS

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