NewBie transitioning from FLL: Vex or FTC

[nfhammes]

Originally Posted by GeeTwo

Is this the thread you're referring to? If not, please provide a link so everyone answering is on the same page.

I think a lot of what's in that linked 2011 thread is still basically valid. The competition structures for the two programs haven't really changed in the last 5 years, relevant to this discussion. There are small changes; 3D printing has expanded parts options in both programs, though FTC still allows a wider set of parts overall, etc.

I'm personally way more familiar with FTC, and know a bunch of the teams and people who run the program in the Midwest. One thing I know is true in FTC there, is there's a strong community of teams in the IL/WI/IN area, and basically everyone I've met out there is fantastic. I don't know about VEX in that region, but if this sense of community is important to you, I recommend exploring it.

The Illinois FTC site has info on grants for teams, and REC's site has info for all states, and each of their programs you can filter down. I know the cost situation is complex, but these should help whichever way you opt to go.