The 2024 FIRST robotics season is “FIRST Dive” and introduces an ocean inspired robotics season
Registration is open for all of our programs and there is a list of frequently asked questions listed below the registration links. If you have any questions please feel free to email kkay99@gmail.com.
In FIRST Lego League Explore teams of students ages 6-10 focus on the fundamentals of engineering as they explore real-world problems, learn to design and code and create unique solutions made with LEGO bricks and powered by LEGO Spike Essential. The FIRST Lego League Explore season runs from September to December.
Friendly competition is at the heart of FIRST Lego League Challenge, as teams of students ages 9-14 engage in research, problem-solving, coding and engineering – building and programming a LEGO robot that navigates the missions of a robot game. As part of Challenge, teams also participate in a research project to identify and solve a relevant real-world problem. The FIRST Lego League Challenge Season runs from August to December with some teams advancing through February.
FIRST Tech Challenge teams (grades 7-12) are challenged to design, build, program, and operate robots to compete in a head-to-head challenge in an alliance format. Teams build 18x18x18 metal robots to compete with each other each season. The FIRST Tech Challenge Season runs from August to February
FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) teams design, program, and build a robot starting with a standard kit of part and common set of rules to play in a themed head to head challenge. Students ages 13-18 gain hands on engineering and life skills. Teams also build a brand, develop community partnerships for support, and work to promote STEM in their local Community. FRC runs year round with the primary build and competitions season being from January through April.
FAQs
Are the age requirements fixed?
The lower age of each program is a a “soft” requirement and students who are able to handle the requirements of each program can participate in the program. The upper age limits for the Lego League program are fixed and the FRC upper age limit is 18 or graduation from high school.
What are the cost of the programs?
We continue to work with our partners to keep the costs as low as possible for our programs and scholarships are available for students if needed.
Please check the individual program signup costs for any costs associated with each program.
When and where are the meetings?
FLL Explore teams meet one day on Tuesday evenings at the Amazeum
FLL Challenge teams meet twice a week (either Monday/Saturday or Thursday/Saturday)
FTC Teams meet Monday, Thursday, and Saturday.
The FRC team meeting is dynamic based on the current team schedule. During the build season the team meets five days a week working on the robot. During the remainder of the year the team meets two to eight times a month depending on the competition schedule.
All teams are meeting in Bentonville in 2024
Do students have to already know programming or robotics?
There are no requirements for prior knowledge for students in the program. Students have the opportunity to build new skills through the season across a wide range of areas.