What is the time commitment for coaches, volunteers, and team members?

As a Mentor or adult Volunteer, you should be meeting with your team at least several times per week during the build and competition season (January – April). Many mature teams also meet throughout the school year, and some compete in off-season events during the summer. You, your family, and your available free time can decide together how much time you can devote to the program.

What kind of computer is needed for a FIRST® Robotics Competition team?

Teams must have access to either a Mac or a PC with an internet connection. Computers will be used for the design process, and for programming the team’s robot. Students will need to use computers for research, the Engineering Notebook, and other awards.

Computers are often used during competition as part of the team’s drive stations for matches. Students will also use the computers during competition, to update or fix potential electrical or programming issues.

What kind of practice space does a FIRST® Robotics Competition team need?

Your team should meet in a suitable space to design and build an industrial-sized robot (about 120 lbs.), that has access to a variety of machine shop power tools. Your team will also need a space that provides access to the internet, to work on your team’s awards, marketing, and outreach.

Are there any special skills required to participate?

The really cool thing about FIRST® Robotics Competition is that all skill levels are welcomed and needed, technical or non-technical. Teams need all kinds of skills to succeed, so what are you good at? We have a job for you. And we’ll probably teach you a few new ones while you’re with us.

Student team members are encouraged to bring any skills they already have, like programming, electronics, metalworking, graphic design, web creation, public speaking, videography, and many more. FIRST® Robotics Competition welcomes every student, with or without special skills. Like our Mentors say, “This is the only sport where if you show up, you can play.”

When does FIRST® Robotics Competition happen?

Each January FIRST®, our parent organization headquartered in New Hampshire, provides teams across the globe with a new challenge that focuses on real-world issues that scientist and engineers are facing today. They have six weeks to plan, design, build, and program a robot to compete with and against other teams and their robots. Competition season lasts from late February through April.

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