FIRST Tech Challenge
Our FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) program is designed for students in grades 7-9 to compete head to head, using a sports model.
Teams are responsible for designing, building, and programming an 18 by 18 by 18 inch robot over the course of a 5 month regular season to compete in an alliance format against other teams. The robot kit is reusable from year-to-year and is programmed using Java, the MIT App Inventor, or other Android programming systems.
Teams, with the guidance of coaches, mentors and volunteers, are required to develop strategy and build robots based on innovative, sound engineering principles. Awards are given for the competition as well as for community outreach, design, and other real-world accomplishments. The ultimate goal of FTC is to reach more young people with a lower-cost, more accessible opportunity to discover the excitement and rewards of STEM.
Students in 7th through 9th grade are available to register for the FTC program. Enrollment for the FTC program is generally open from June to August of each year. To signup to participate in this program, please fill out and submit a member application.
Dues for the year are $500 per student that help cover the operating cost of the program. Payments can be processed through our website or via check (Payment Policy). Students have the option of paying in Half or Full increments. Payment is due by the below dates (or within 7 days of initial registration). If a student registers between dates, the latest amount that has not passed is due.
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- August 1st – Minimum $250 Due
- October 1st – Full Payment Due
Travel costs to the World Championship is not included in the above registration cost. If the team qualifies for the World Championship – Estimated $1000 (including flights to Houston TX).
growingSTEMS currently host up to 3 FTC Teams as part of our Community Robotics Program.