FTC stands for FIRST Tech Challenge. It's a robotics competition for students in grades 7–12 where teams design, build, and program robots to compete in head-to-head challenges on a 12'x12' field. Each season has a unique game with new tasks like scoring objects, climbing structures, or working autonomously. Beyond engineering, FTC also emphasizes teamwork, outreach, and the FIRST values of Gracious Professionalism.

FLL (FIRST LEGO League) — Ages 4–16 (split into Explorer and Challenge divisions). Teams use LEGO Mindstorms robots on a small tabletop field. Focused on introducing younger kids to science, technology, and problem-solving through a research project and a robot game.FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) — Grades 7–12. Smaller robots (18" cube max), smaller field (12'×12'), teams of 2–15 people. More affordable and accessible, with a bigger focus on programming and hands-on building.FRC (FIRST Robotics Competition) — Grades 9–12. Much larger robots (up to 125 lbs), full-sized field (~27'×54'), teams of 25+ people. Higher budget, more resources, and a more intense competition experience.What they all share: All three are run by FIRST, emphasize teamwork and Gracious Professionalism, and are designed as a progression — many FRC and FTC students started in FLL.