FIRST TECH CHALLENGE is the third tier in the FIRST continuum. In this level, teams will create an 18″x18″x18″ or smaller robot to compete in a 12′ by 12′ playing field. Each robot will compete on an alliance of two randomly selected teams for the qualification rounds. Each game match lasts 2.5 minutes: 30 seconds for Autonomous (using only sensor inputs and preprogrammed instructions), 1.5 minutes of Tele-Operation (driver controlled,) and 30 seconds for End Game. Two alliances compete for the highest score in each match.
Every artifact we uncover holds a story. Each tool, each innovation, each work of art connects us to the people and ideas that came before us. Using STEM skills and teamwork, today we can dig deeper into discoveries than ever before.
Welcome to FIRST® AGE™ presented by Qualcomm, our 2025-2026 robotics season inspired by archaeology. What will you uncover in FIRST® Tech Challenge?
Aside from the robot game, each team should create an engineering notebook that showcases how team practices work, unique engineering design processes, brainstorming sessions and discussions, outreach, and any other essential parts of a team notebook.
Submission of these notebooks take place in the judging rooms where teams will present their robot, outreach projects and business plan to the judging panel.
These components all build up to create the wonderful and exciting competition of FIRST Tech Challenge!