[FTC]: FVC (Vex) VS. FTC (Tetrix)

[EricH]

Isn't FTC not available in certain areas, or am I still in 2008 on that? If it isn't available, that's a con, as VRC has more areas with competitions.

[JesseK]

Originally Posted by EricH

Isn't FTC not available in certain areas, or am I still in 2008 on that? If it isn't available, that's a con, as VRC has more areas with competitions.

I'm pretty sure you're correct. In the very least, teams would have to travel long distances to compete in FTC competitions if they live in a remote location. For example, Alaskan VRC teams could do a youtube video of their Skills challenge submission, yet they probably wouldn't even bother flying to a state competition due to the large distances. I'm also pretty sure that in the more rural parts of the country there are few FTC competitions (though that's based on conjecture and I don't have time to look it up atm). I'd say it's more of a VRC pro than an FTC con.

[JaneYoung]

There are people around who are attempting to introduce and are introducing both competitions to areas. Both are developing and expanding. The programs, themselves, are creative in their recruitment and their impact.

[EricH]

Originally Posted by JesseK

I'm pretty sure you're correct. In the very least, teams would have to travel long distances to compete in FTC competitions if they live in a remote location. For example, Alaskan VRC teams could do a youtube video of their Skills challenge submission, yet they probably wouldn't even bother flying to a state competition due to the large distances. I'm also pretty sure that in the more rural parts of the country there are few FTC competitions (though that's based on conjecture and I don't have time to look it up atm). I'd say it's more of a VRC pro than an FTC con.

I was thinking more of MI, and the early years of FTC as FTC when there wasn't a single competition west of the Mississippi (which made L.A. residents unhappy...) Those aren't rural, yet didn't have a single competition. I think that part has changed, but still, it was not the best move, and many teams from those areas do VRC instead.

[JaneYoung]

Originally Posted by EricH

I was thinking more of MI, and the early years of FTC as FTC when there wasn't a single competition west of the Mississippi (which made L.A. residents unhappy...) Those aren't rural, yet didn't have a single competition. I think that part has changed, but still, it was not the best move, and many teams from those areas do VRC instead.

As long as you stay around the business of robotics and technology, there will be change. It is at the core of their very nature. The trick is to appreciate that aspect of it, respect it, and remain flexible as the programs develop and grow. Who knows what will happen 2 years, 4 years, 10 years down the road. The goals and planning that are imperative to successful programs and their clientele, will help with that development and growth.

What we do know, and becomes readily apparent, is that some of the best and brightest of the FIRST program are involved in the success of VRC. Experience is a valuable asset.