Each season kicks off with a live broadcast revealing the new game's rules and objectives. These often involve tasks like shooting objects into goals, placing items, climbing, or navigating obstacles. Teams are given approximately six weeks to design, construct, and program their robots, which can weigh up to 125 pounds, excluding batteries and bumpers. They utilize a range of tools, including CAD for design and various programming languages for robot control. The competitions feature matches where three-team alliances face off in rounds that typically last about two and a half minutes, split between autonomous and teleoperated periods.

The robot design process for FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) games is a dynamic and intensive engineering challenge where teams have roughly six weeks to conceptualize, design, and construct a robot after the annual game details are released. Starting with brainstorming and strategic planning to determine the most effective approach to the game's objectives, teams then utilize Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools to create detailed schematics of their robot. The process includes selecting appropriate materials and components, integrating electronic and mechanical systems, and programming the robot for autonomous and manual operations. Throughout this period, teams continuously iterate on their designs, testing and refining to enhance performance and reliability, all while adhering to strict competition rules and specifications.

The hardware and fabrication aspect of robot building is a crucial and hands-on phase where teams transform their designs into functioning robots. This involves cutting, shaping, and assembling various materials such as metal, plastics, and composites to create the robot's structural framework and functional mechanisms. Teams use a variety of tools and equipment, including CNC machines, lathes, drills, and welders, to fabricate parts precisely. They also integrate commercial off-the-shelf components like motors, gears, and sensors, alongside custom-made elements. Electrical systems are carefully wired to ensure reliable communication between the robot's control system and its mechanical parts. This phase not only requires technical skill and attention to detail but also rigorous testing and adjustments to ensure the robot can withstand the rigors of competition and perform the intended tasks effectively.

The software work in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) encompasses programming the robot to perform tasks autonomously and respond to operator controls during matches. Teams typically uses a language, such as Java, to write code that controls the robot's motors, sensors, and actuators, integrating various libraries provided by FRC. The coding process begins with developing algorithms for autonomous actions based on sensor inputs, such as vision systems to detect objects or distances. Additionally, teams program teleoperated controls to enable precise manipulation by drivers during the competition. This phase involves extensive debugging and real-time testing on the robot to fine-tune performance and ensure reliable operation under match conditions. Effective software development is critical for maximizing the robot’s capabilities and strategic gameplay.

The business and marketing aspects are vital for supporting the technical challenges of robot building. Teams engage in a range of activities to secure sponsorships, manage budgets, and raise funds, often through community outreach, presentations to potential sponsors, and crowdfunding campaigns. Marketing efforts are crucial for building a team brand and increasing visibility in the community. Teams create promotional materials, maintain active social media accounts, and develop websites to share their progress and achievements. These business operations not only provide the financial and material resources needed for constructing competitive robots but also offer students practical experience in business management and communications, preparing them for real-world challenges beyond the technical scope of robotics.