Middle and high school students from across Massachusetts are gearing up to showcase their ingenuity and technical aptitude in the inaugural FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC) Spotlight Showdown at the WNE qualifier. FIRST, (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) cultivates self-confidence and collaborative problem-solving skills through its thrilling, sports-like challenges, leaving a proven and lasting impact on STEAM learning and interest.
As part of this season's 2024 CENTERSTAGE℠ presented by RTX challenge, FTC teams are set to unveil the results of their hard work and innovation, demonstrating the power of design, creativity, and precision to create unique robotic experiences.
Competing in alliances of two, teams will engage in intense matches striving to score and outplay their competitors to secure the highest event score. The spotlight is not only on the competition but also on the recognition, as teams vie for honors in six award categories. The top four winners from this event will advance to compete at the FTC MA State Championship on March 9th at Andover High School.
The Spotlight Showdown at WNE is scheduled for Sunday, January 28, at the Caprio Alumni Healthful Living Center on the campus of Western New England University (WNE) in Springfield, MA. Twenty-three teams, comprised of students and engineering and technical mentors, will showcase their science, math, and technology skills.
The public, including parents, grandparents, friends, and colleagues, is invited to attend and witness the excitement of the competition while learning more about the FTC program. This event is an excellent opportunity for those interested in bringing robotics to their communities to see the robot-play in action, engage with team students and mentors, and explore ways to get involved in FTC. Admission is free.
The opening ceremonies are sceduled to begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by the start of the competition matches. The day's agenda can be found at Event Agenda. Don't miss this chance to experience the future of science and technology in action!
