FIRST Robotics Competition

What is FIRST® Robotics Competition?

The FIRST® Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard “kit of parts” and a common set of rules. FIRST® Robotics Competition Teams build robots from the parts and compete in games designed by Dean Kamen, Dr. Woodie Flowers, and a committee of engineers and other professionals.

FIRST® redefines winning for these students by rewarding teams for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last.

WHO

  • FIRST® Robotics Competition Teams 10-20 high school age kids.
  • Teams form in schools, clubs, and neighborhood groups. No requirements on affiliation.
  • Teams need a handful of adult coach/mentors including some engineering-mentors.

WHEN

  • Kick off for FIRST® Robotics Competition is in early January, though most teams will meet before then to develop basic skills and prepare for the season.
  • The season has a very strict 6-week build season. Robots must be in a box ready to ship to competition exactly 6 weeks after the kick off.
  • Regional Competitions take place in March and April.

WHERE

  • There is currently only one FIRST® Robotics Competition Team in Alaska. That team is open to any student in the Anchorage area that wishes to participate.
  • Teams can be formed anywhere, though access to a machine shop and professional mentors (which can be done virtually) is recommended.
  • There are no FIRST® Robotics Competition Tournaments in Alaska. Teams must fly to the Lower-48 or Hawaii to compete. A list of Competitions can be found here.

HOW

COST

  • FIRST® Robotics Competition is the most expensive of the FIRST® programs. A minimum of $20,000 is usually needed for a first year program (this includes travel funding to attend a tournament).

THEME

The Theme For The 2024-25 FIRST® Robotics Competition Season is:

Video Coming Soon – FIRST® Robotics Competition Kickoff and Game Reveal Jan 4th, 2025

FIRST® Robotics Competition Kickoff and Game Reveal Video Announcement

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