FIRST Championship 2026: How Robotics, STEM, and Innovation Are Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders

In this exciting episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil Haley welcomes Christian Hubicki, FIRST alum, robotics expert, and competitor on Survivor 50, along with Liam Twohig, a student participant at the 2026 FIRST Championship. Together, they discuss one of the world's largest and most influential STEM competitions, the impact of robotics education, and how programs like FIRST are preparing students for careers in technology, engineering, business, and beyond. The conversation highlights not only the incredible robots on display but also the life-changing opportunities available to students who participate in FIRST programs around the globe.

The interview begins with an overview of the 2026 FIRST Championship, an international robotics competition that brings together students from kindergarten through high school to showcase their accomplishments in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. With thousands of students, mentors, educators, and industry professionals gathered in one location, the event serves as both a competition and a celebration of innovation. Participants design, build, program, and operate robots while developing critical skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Liam shares his personal journey with FIRST and explains how the program transformed his confidence and communication skills. When he first joined his robotics team in eighth grade, he struggled to speak in front of others and found networking intimidating. Through participation in FIRST, however, he gradually developed the ability to communicate effectively, engage with judges, collaborate with teammates, and represent his team in professional settings. His experience demonstrates how STEM programs can foster personal growth alongside technical development.

One of the key themes throughout the conversation is that FIRST is much more than a robotics competition. Christian explains that FIRST stands for For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology and serves as one of the leading global organizations promoting STEM education. The program gives students hands-on experience with real-world technology while exposing them to careers they may never have considered. Participants are not simply building robots; they are solving problems, collaborating with others, and learning skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

Christian emphasizes that robotics serves as a vehicle for much broader educational experiences. Students must tackle challenges related to engineering, programming, manufacturing, business management, fundraising, marketing, communications, and project planning. Teams often function like small companies, with students taking on leadership roles and managing complex projects. These experiences help participants develop a practical understanding of how organizations operate while preparing them for future careers in virtually any field.

The scale of the FIRST community is truly remarkable. Christian notes that tens of thousands of students participate annually, creating one of the largest STEM networks in the world. At the championship alone, thousands of students gather to share ideas, learn from one another, and build relationships that may continue throughout their professional lives. The connections formed through FIRST often lead to internships, career opportunities, mentorships, and lifelong friendships.

For Liam, one of the most valuable aspects of the program has been the opportunity to explore his interest in 3D animation and creative technology. Although robotics is often associated strictly with engineering, Liam explains that FIRST embraces STEAM education—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Through his work with 3D printing and design, he has gained skills that align closely with his future career aspirations. The program's emphasis on communication, creativity, and collaboration makes it relevant even for students whose goals