Oaks compete in their inaugural FIRST Tech Challenge
Good luck, Marah G. '22, Stanley S. '22, Sarah M. '23, Parker H. '25, Vincent M. '25 and Maddie M. '25! These Oaks are participating in the FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics regional qualifier on Saturday.
Named the O.A.K.S. for Outstanding Automated Kinetic System, the students will compete in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC).
What is FTC?
FTC is one of three robotics programs offered through FIRST, with this one being for students in Grades 7-12.
It presents a challenge to the students, who then design, build and program the robot, which can be reused and improved from year to year. The Android-based robot is programmed using Java, Blocks programming interface or other Android programming systems. The team is challenged with using innovative, yet sound engineering principles.
This year the season's theme is Freight Frenzy. “Teams and their robots must navigate a complex transportation system by traversing barriers and racing against time to load and deliver essential items to those who need them most,” according to FTC’s website.
When students arrive at the competition, they will be assigned to an alliance of two teams they will compete with. Their robots then go head-to-head in an alliance format competition. Students have to work together to problem-solve and complete their challenges successfully.
In addition to the building of the robot, students must also fundraise, design and market their team brand and perform community outreach in order to win awards.
How does the competition work?
Competitions consist of local and regional qualifiers. Teams must compete locally for a chance to advance by earning a spot in the world FIRST Championship.
Teams have 3 minutes to complete their challenge successfully while also trying to score points by completing set tasks.
