High school groups from across the nation brought their robots to compete in the Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Tallahassee Regional
The event offers major engineering firms, government agencies and contractors a chance to spot the best and brightest of the next generation.
By Matt Hoffmann, WCTV
Published: Mar. 14, 2025 at 4:01 PM EDT – Link to the article – WATCH THE VIDEO
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – Chants, cheers, groans and screams reverberated through the Al Lawson Center in Tallahassee Friday.
But the crowds weren’t reacting to a basketball game or other sports match. Their attention was gripped by speedy robots.
The FSU-FAMU joint College of Engineering is teaming up with NASA and other engineering groups to host the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Tallahassee Regional this weekend at the center on Florida A&M’s campus.
The event offers major engineering firms, government agencies and contractors a chance to spot the best and brightest of the next generation. It also generates interest in the joint engineering college.
Scores of teenage students from across the nation are descending on the capital city with a clear focus: survive and advance.
Though the energy was high at the Lawson Center on Friday, students were only there to practice. The real competition kicks off Saturday at 8:30 a.m. and will continue at the same time Sunday. Spectators can watch for free.
“And then there’s also aspects like speed. Is your robot lightweight? Is it sturdy?” said Eve, a co-captain for the Capital City Chaotic Coders (C4), a Tallahassee community team.