FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is the flagship program of FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). It is an international high school robotics competition that brings together students, mentors, and coaches from around the world to design, build, and program robots in a challenging, competition-based format.
Each year, FRC releases a new game, and teams are given a standard kit of parts — but no instructions. They have six weeks to design and build a robot that can accomplish the game’s tasks. This may include things like scoring balls into goals, hanging on bars, or balancing on beams. The tasks are meant to mimic real-world engineering challenges and can change dramatically from year to year.
Teams are judged on their ability to design and build a competitive robot, but also on other elements such as teamwork, cooperation, and outreach efforts. An important part of FRC is the concept of “Gracious Professionalism” — encouraging high-quality work, emphasizing the value of others, and showing respect for everyone.
The competition culminates in the FIRST Championship, an international event where teams from around the world come together to compete. The ultimate goal of FRC is not simply to win, but to inspire students to pursue education and career opportunities in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math), while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills.