FIRST is a global nonprofit organization with a mission to "inspire young people to be science and technology leaders and innovators, by engaging them 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."
There are 3 different challenges for different age groups, with each one specializing in something unique, adding a unique touch that sparks creativity and innovation.
First Lego League (FLL) is a robotics competition throughout ages 4-16 where teams build and code Lego robots often by using Spike Prime Kits. These robots then complete a challenge on a 4ft by 8ft field completing difficult tasks with other robots. Lego League often focuses on research projects and judging with a huge impact on core values.
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First Tech Challenge (FTC) is a robotics competition throughout ages 12-18 providing the idea of an intermediate level of robotics. Teams create robots which are composed of metal parts and more advanced electrical components often using REV or GoBUILDA parts and Java or Block coding. These challenges often take place on a 12 ft by 12 ft field. FIRST Tech Challenge focuses on Strategy, Engineering notebooks and judging with a little bit more freedom in designing when compared to the lego league.
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First Robotics Competition (FRC): is the largest, most advanced robotics competition in FTRST, providing real world engineering experiences. These robots are HUGE weighing up to 120 pounds and are often built using kits or custom designed parts. These challenges take place on a 54 ft long by 26 ft wide field. FRC specializes in sponsorships, machining and advanced programming, often making the season feel like a sports season.
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CHECK OUT THE CHALLENGES FOR THIS SEASON of 2025-2026
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