Inspiring innovation through competitive robotics
The FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is a dynamic and engaging robotics competition designed to inspire and challenge young minds in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
What is FIRST Tech Challenge?
Visit SiteFounded by inventor Dean Kamen in partnership with the non-profit organization FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), FTC aims to foster a passion for innovation and problem-solving among students from grades 7 to 12.
In this thrilling competition, teams of students design, build, program, and operate their own robots to tackle a series of complex and exciting challenges. Each year, FTC releases a new game or challenge that teams must strategize for, resulting in robots that must possess a diverse set of capabilities, from autonomous navigation to precise manipulation of objects.
The competition not only encourages technical skills development but also emphasizes teamwork, collaboration, and gracious professionalism, values that are at the heart of the FIRST philosophy.
DECODE™ presented by RTX - Uncover the Future through archaeology-inspired robotics! Teams will investigate the power of the world's artifacts and unlock mysteries through innovative robotics solutions.
Robots must demonstrate both autonomous capabilities and driver-controlled precision as teams compete in an exciting field of competition that tests engineering innovation, programming skills, and strategic thinking.
SEASON DETAILS
Challenge Release: September 6, 2025
Target Age: Ages 12-18 (Grades 7-12)
Theme: Archaeology & Discoveries
Match Format: Two-on-two alliances
HOW IT WORKS
1. Autonomous Period - Robots operate independently using pre-programmed instructions
2. Driver-Controlled Period - Student drivers take control to complete tasks
3. Alliance Strategy - Teams work together combining strengths
4. Judging & Awards - Teams present engineering notebooks and outreach