FIRST Robotics Programs

FIRST LEGO League (Ages 4-14)

FIRST LEGO League consists of three progressive divisions designed to introduce young learners to STEM concepts through engaging, hands-on activities. The program begins with Discover (ages 4-6), which uses LEGO DUPLO bricks to ignite natural curiosity and build learning habits. Explore (ages 6-10) introduces more complex challenges, while Challenge (ages 9-14) represents the most advanced division where teams research real-world problems, design solutions, and build programmable LEGO robots using SPIKE Prime technology.

Teams in the Challenge division compete in robot games where their creations navigate missions on themed playing fields, while also presenting innovative solutions to current global issues. The program emphasizes both technical skills and core values including teamwork, discovery, and innovation. Research shows that 94% of coaches report increased problem-solving skills in participants, while 95% observe enhanced teamwork abilities.

FIRST Lego League

FIRST Tech Challenge (Ages 12-18)

FIRST Tech Challenge serves as a medium scale robotics competition. It can serve as a bridge between FLL and FRC, but is still a full scale, competitive robotics program on its own. Teams of 2-15 students design, build, and program classroom-scale robots using reusable components powered by Android technology. The robots compete in alliance-format matches, executing both autonomous and driver-controlled periods during two-and-a-half-minute games.

FTC emphasizes accessibility with lower costs (approximately $1,000-$2,500 per season) and moderate time commitments, typically requiring 6-8 hours per week during the September-to-February season. Teams can program their robots using various levels of Java-based programming, making the platform suitable for different skill levels. The program particularly benefits smaller teams by allowing most members to gain hands-on experience in multiple aspects of robot design and operation.

FIRST Tech Challenge

FIRST Robotics Competition (Ages 14-18)

FIRST Robotics Competition represents the most intensive program, challenging high school teams to design and build industrial-sized robots weighing up to 150 pounds. Each January, teams receive a standard kit of parts and six weeks to create robots capable of competing in complex, themed challenges on 27x54-foot playing fields.

FRC demands significant commitment, with teams typically meeting 20+ hours per week during a 7 week build season. The program is a more expensive option but offers correspondingly greater opportunities for specialization in areas like mechanical design, programming, business strategy, or team branding. Also, it is the Lamborghini of robotics programs. Teams compete in three-alliance formats at regional and championship events.

FIRST Robotics Competition

Measurable Impact on Students

The impact of FIRST programs extends far beyond robotics skills. Research demonstrates that 61% of alumni declare a major in engineering or computer science by their fourth year of college, significantly higher than national averages. Participants develop crucial workforce skills including communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities.

The programs provide access to millions of dollars in college scholarships and create networking opportunities with industry professionals. Students gain real-world experience in project management, fundraising, community outreach, and public speaking while building confidence and technical competency.

Most importantly, FIRST programs embody "Gracious Professionalism," teaching students to compete intensely while treating others with respect and kindness. This philosophy creates an inclusive environment where students with varying technical backgrounds can contribute meaningfully to team success, preparing them not just for STEM careers, but for collaborative leadership roles in any field.

FIRST Robotics Impact