FIRST Tech Challenge

FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) teams participate in a new Game each year that requires them to design, build, test, and program autonomous and driver-operated robots that must perform a series of tasks. FIRST Tech Challenge teams can be only two students, but are usually between six and ten. FIRST Tech Challenge is designed for students in grades 7-12.

Find out more about the current BC FIRST Tech Challenge Season – CENTERSTAGE or check out our Resources for FTC Teams.

Step-by-step guide to starting a team

The playing field for the Game consists of the FIRST Tech Challenge game pieces set up on a foam-mat surface, surrounded by a metal and Lexan Field frame. Each Tournament features Alliances, which are comprised of two Teams, competing against one another on the playing field.

POWERPLAY Field

Teams work to overcome obstacles and meet challenges, while learning from, and interacting with their peers and adult Mentors. Students develop a greater appreciation of science and technology and how they might use that knowledge to impact the world around them in a positive manner. They also cultivate life skills such as:

  • Planning, brainstorming, and creative problem-solving.
  • Research and technical skills.
  • Collaboration and teamwork.
  • Appreciation of differences and respect for the ideas and contributions of others.
Team 18589 St. Pat's Celtic Silverfish
Team 18589 St. Pat’s Celtic Silverfish

We’re planning events and activities in both Victoria and the Vancouver area.  Check out the Events page for a list of current dates, times and locations.

Contact Us  for more information about FIRST Tech Challenge in British Columbia.

To learn more about FIRST Tech Challenge and other FIRST Programs, visit https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/ftc.

Past FTC Seasons

2022-2023 POWERPLAY

2021-2022 FREIGHT FRENZY

2020-2021 ULTIMATE GOAL

2019-2020: SKYSTONE

2018-2019: ROVER RUCKUS

2017-2018: RELIC RECOVERY

2016-2017: VELOCITY VORTEX