What is FIRST?

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is an international youth organization, founded in 1989 by Dean Kamen, to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. The mission of FIRST is to encourage young people by engaging them in mentor-based programs which build science, engineering and technology skills that inspire innovation and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.

FIRST Tech Challenge Overview

The FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is a robotics competition that provides the opportunity for student teams to compete head to head using a competitive sports model. Guided by adult coaches and mentors, students develop STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) skills and practice engineering principles while realizing the value of hard work, innovation, and sharing ideas. Teams also must raise funds, design and market their team brand, and do community outreach. Each season concludes with regional Championships and two exciting FIRST World Championships.

Demonstrations

If you’re hosting an event and you’re interested in having a robot in attendance, the Browncoats are more than willing to come and participate! For more information about what our demonstrations are or when we’re available, please send an email to ftcbrowncoats@gmail.com and someone from the team will get back to you as soon as possible with all the information you need!

Alternatively, if you or anyone you know is interested in starting a FIRST Tech Challenge team, The Browncoats are available to come meet with the interested group, demonstrate our robot, and give a presentation about what it means to be a FIRST team. We’ll provide all kinds of resources and help you in any way needed. Just send an email to ftcbrowncoats@gmail.com and we’ll figure out a time and date that works for you!

About Us

We are a community team made up of students ranging from 7th – 12th grades, in the Huntsville, Alabama area. This is our tenth year as an FTC team. 

Join Our Team

Are you interested in joining a community robotics team? The Browncoats may be the right choice for you! Fill out our student application and we'll reach out to you as soon as possible.

Calendar

Stay up to date with our current and upcoming outreach and competition events!