It's not just robots.
FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) challenges members to not only build a robot, but to think creatively, to solve unique problems, and to work with others in order to succeed. The FIRST program impresses an environment of respect in the midst of competition (read more about here). No matter how their team performs, each student emerges with an understanding of teamwork and gratitude.
Engineers in Training
The FRC program caters to high school students, age 14 to 18. However, we recognize that students under that threshold can be just as capable to take on such an ambitious program. That’s why we encourage students ages 12 and 13 to join our FRC team as an Engineer in Training (EiT). Our EiTs are as much a part of the team as anybody, and are given all of the opportunities FRC presents.
Pre-Season
September – December
Students build foundations in all FRC skills – including programming, build, and design – as well as the fundamental values of our team. LIFE Engineering works to establish six core values – Character, Morality, Diligence, Passion, Faith, and Courage – in all its students, emphasizing the importance of ethics in STEM culture. During pre-season, these values are introduced, discussed, and put in practice as students prepare for the challenge of build season.
Build Season
January – March
It all begins with the game reveal: Students are introduced to a whole new set of rules, game pieces, and goals then given limited time and resources to build complex and innovative robots. Each year, students work tirelessly to churn out a bot of their own creation with few restrictions and absolutely no instructions.
Competition Season
March – May
After designing, building, and programming their robots, students finally get to put them to the test. In a series of fierce competitions, teams will be forced to work with and against each other and battle for the top spots. Students control their bots in order to score points, return to their “pit” for repairs and improvements, and form alliances with other teams. It’s intense, competitive, and so much fun!