Voltage Vipers

FIRST Tech Challenge or FTC is a youth robotics program organized by FIRST for students in grades 7-12. FTC teams work together with mentors to design, build, program, and operate robots to compete in annual games or challenges. FTC encourages students to develop unique skill sets, including mechanical design, electronics, programming, project management, strategy, and community engagement, preparing them for higher education and future careers. Teams build robots, raise funds, design and market their team brand, and do community outreach to earn specific awards. 

First is an international organization, giving teams the opportunity to work with others from around the world. First also has other levels for teams to compete in. for grades k-8 there is First Lego Legue or Fll. In FLL, teams of students work together to research a theme-based challenge, program autonomous robots using LEGO Education tools, and present their solutions to judges. Similarly, for grades 9-12, there is First robotics competition or FRC. FRC is specifically designed for high school students and combines the excitement of sports with the rigors of stem. Teams must design, build, and program a robot that can complete the game’s objectives. Robots often weigh up to 125 pounds (57 kg) and use many components to perform complex tasks.