Advanced Robotics
FIRST Tech Challenge
A hands-on program for youth ages 12–18 in the Hudson Valley.
A hands-on program for youth ages 12–18 in the Hudson Valley.
FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is the next level of competitive robotics. Unlike FLL, FTC robots are built entirely from scratch — custom-designed, custom-built, and programmed in Java or Blocks. It's a serious engineering challenge that mirrors what college robotics students and professional engineers actually do.
FTC students commit to a full season: ideating and designing their robot, sourcing and fabricating parts, writing and testing code, and competing in qualifying tournaments and the regional championship, with a path to the FIRST World Championship in Houston. The program is demanding — and produces students who are genuinely prepared for engineering, computer science, or any field that rewards systematic, creative problem-solving.
Registration is open. The team meets Wednesday evenings, with additional meetings scheduled as needed, and is capped at six students. Questions? Contact us.
Curriculum guides, session plans, and program materials for FIRST Tech Challenge instructors and partner educators are available in the teacher portal.
Access Teacher Portal →Resources for students and parents already in the program, on the Newburgh Creates community site.
Coach Dave Long on what students learn in FIRST LEGO League and FIRST Tech Challenge, the careers it points toward, and what the research says about college and scholarships.
Open to youth ages 12–18 in the Hudson Valley. Wednesdays 6:30–8:30 PM, September through March, plus additional meetings as needed. $250/month, six seats. Scholarships available.