🤖 2026-2027 FIRST Tech Challenge (Competitive Program)

📘 Program Overview

FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) is a high-level robotics program for middle and high school students who are ready to take on real-world engineering challenges using metal parts, advanced sensors, and Java-based coding.

In this program, students design, build, and code a competition-ready robot using REV Robotics hardware and Android-based control systems. They’ll work in dedicated teams to develop autonomous and driver-controlled strategies, apply engineering documentation practices, and compete head-to-head in an official FTC league.

This program is intended for students who are passionate about robotics, engineering, and innovation. All equipment and training is provided — no prior experience is required.

This program is not a trial or short-term enrichment class. This is a fixed, year long full season competitive commitment. Spots are limited. Teams are capped at 7-8 students. Withdrawal after enrollment does not reduce tuition obligations. The full program tuition remains due even if a student drops out.

🎯 What Students Learn

• Structural robot design using metal frames and components
• Electrical wiring and hardware integration
• Programming in Java for both autonomous and teleop modes
• Engineering notebook documentation
• Game analysis, rule strategy, and tournament professionalism
• Communication, leadership, and collaborative problem-solving

📅 Program Timeline

Spring Training Phase
February 2026 to May 2026
Weekly commitment. 2 hours per week

Summer Break
June to July
No classes

FIRST Theme Launch and Classes Resume
August 2026
Teams begin training on the official competition theme once it is released

Regional Qualifiers
December 2026/January 2027
Exact dates are announced by FIRST closer to the season

Championship Tournament
February 2027, if qualified
Exact dates are announced closer to the event.
Qualification for states will incur additional tuition beyond the regular season

Competition Window
Most regional and state competitions take place between December 2026 and February 2027. Tuition for this program covers training and competition through regional qualifiers only. Advancement beyond regionals requires additional fees for extended training and competition preparation

Do not enroll if your family plans extended travel longer than a few days during Winter 2026–2027.

📌 Who This Program Is Ideal For

• Students looking to compete in the 2026–2027 FIRST Tech Challenge
• First time competitors who want structured, guided competition training
  
• Returning students preparing for advanced gameplay and team roles
  
• Students ready for a team based, long term commitment
  
• Families with flexibility during the fall competition season for additional practice time

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Team Size and Placement

• Teams include a maximum of 7-8 students
• Teams are formed by coach and director recommendation
• Friend or sibling requests accepted by email when possible
• Placement at nearby locations offered if a site fills
• After registration, families are required to complete a placement form. This form helps confirm experience level, availability, and readiness so students are matched to the appropriate team

⏱️ Time Commitment Expectations

• Spring semester. 2 hours weekly
• Fall semester. 3-6 hours weekly + Additional hours as needed
• Increased practice time required closer to competition weekend. Teams may meet up to 5–10 hours during peak competition weeks
• Flexibility in the fall is required to schedule for the additional time. 

💵 Tuition and Payment

• Fixed program fee for the full 2026–2027 season, regardless of when a student joins. The 8–9 month program is split into an 12 month payment plan for convenience
• A deposit is required at registration to secure a team spot
• Payments are automatically scheduled every month
• A separate competition fee of $200 is required at the start of the official theme launch in August
• Tuition covers robotics kits, equipment, and team supplies through regional qualifiers
• Travel, meals, lodging, and transportation are not included

Tuition covers training and competition for up to 2 regional qualifiers only. Competing in additional qualifliers will incur an addional $200 fee. Advancement to states or worlds will incur additional tuition and competition-related fees.

⚖️ Refund and Commitment Policy

• No refunds once payment is made
• Full season commitment required
• Dropping out mid-season is not permitted
• Full tuition remains due if a student withdraws
• Dropouts impact team performance and competition outcomes
• No makeups or credits for missed sessions

If you are unsure about committing to a competitive program, please review our non-competitive program options before enrolling.

🧳 Travel and Competition Details

• FTC teams compete in local league meets and may qualify for state-level tournaments
• Competing in more than 2 regional qualifiers will incur an addional $200 fee.
• Events are typically held within Virginia, but may include some regional travel
• Hotel bookings for travel events will be coordinated by Odin Wise; families will reimburse Odin for all travel-related costs.
• Travel-related expenses, such as food, gas, and transportation, are the responsibility of each family
• Students might need to leave a couple of hours early from school fora competition travel
• Advancement past regional qualifiers will incur additional fees

📋 Policies & Participation Expectations

• All hardware, tools, and programming devices are provided. Students may choose to use their own laptops but it is not required.
• Students must attend all scheduled build sessions and meets
• Parents must notify coaches of any known absences in advance
• Missed work must be caught up outside of class
• No refunds or rescheduling for missed sessions

❓FAQs

How many students are on a team?
FTC teams typically have 4–8 students working with a lead coach and assistant mentor.

What experience is required?
None — students of all levels are welcome. We provide all necessary training and support.

Is there travel involved?
Yes. Travel within Virginia is common for league events and tournaments. Overnight stays may be necessary.

What should students bring to class?
Water, nut-free snacks, and a notebook. All tools and equipment are provided.

Will my child need to miss school?
Possibly. Students may need to leave school a couple of hours early for travel to events.

Do you provide laptops or equipment?
Yes — all FTC kits, phones, controllers, and laptops are supplied by Odin Wise. Students may choose to use their own laptops but it is not required. 

When will we know the exact dates of the competition?
TBD — competition organizers announce dates closer to the event. We'll notify families as soon as we receive them.

⏳ Waitlist Policy

• Free waitlist available at checkout
• Email notification sent if a spot opens
• Nearby team placement offered when possible

📩 Questions or Placement Requests

Email [email protected]