WHAT IS FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge)?
FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) is an international robotics program designed for students in grades 7 through 12, allowing them to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) while enhancing their teamwork skills. Since 1998, this program has been held annually, introducing a new theme each year. Teams design and program a robot based on the given theme.
Core Goals of FTC:
- Promote interest in STEM fields
- Develop teamwork and problem-solving skills
- Encourage creativity and innovation
- Enhance engineering and design skills
- Inspire students and prepare them as future leaders
Teams Participating in FTC:
- Consist of 15 students
- Receive mentorship from a coach
- Conduct research related to the season's theme
- Present their research findings to judges in a prepared presentation
- Compete against other teams in tournaments
- Design and program a robot using Go-Bilda or VEX Robotics platforms
Benefits of FTC:
- Increases interest in STEM fields
- Develops teamwork and problem-solving skills
- Encourages creativity and innovation
- Enhances engineering and design abilities
- Builds self-confidence and problem-solving skills
- Provides opportunities to connect and collaborate with students from different countries
FTC in Turkey:
FTC is organized in Turkey by the Fikret Yüksel Foundation. Every year, regional tournaments are held in different cities across Turkey. Teams that achieve high rankings in these tournaments qualify to participate in the World Championship held in the United States.