How Did This Happen?
Flashback five days ago: it was a normal school and work day. Then, the email arrived:
Your team has been selected from the FIRST waitlist to attend the FIRST Championship…”
At the end of the Central Texas Regional tournament, we sat in a three-way tie for 11th place. With only eight advancement slots available, we missed the cut by three spots. We were bummed, but content; we were still near the top of the 250 teams that competed in the Central Region this season.
Then, last week, more Worlds spots became available as other teams were unable to make it. These new spots were distributed by FIRST HQ: North Texas got one, San Diego got one, and Central Texas received two more!
Doing the Math
You might be asking, “Wait, 8 + 2 equals 10. How did you make it from 11th place?” When the new spots opened up, the 9th-place team was invited first, but they declined. 10th place accepted.
The invite then moved to the teams tied for 11th. Each team had 39 advancement points, but Microchips & Queso owned the tie-breaker thanks to our 2nd Place Inspire Award! All the hard work the team put into the judged awards paid off, and we were officially offered a spot at the World Championship in Houston.
Preparing for the Event
It has been a whirlwind few days mobilizing for the trip. Here is how we’ve been spending our 120-hour sprint:
- Logistics: Parents secured hotel rooms and meals have been planned.
- Hardware: The pit has been organized, the robot’s functions have been verified, and all backup parts and tools are packed.
- Software & Strategy: Team members are reviewing the championship tournament format and memorizing their judging presentations.
🛰️Follow Our Journey
You can follow the action in real-time all week long!
Follow @microchipsandqueso for live stories. If you miss them, check out the “Worlds 2026” highlight on our profile.
📺 Watch the Live Streams
The Official Event Page for Edison Division will have all match schedules and award winners. You can also watch the matches live on YouTube:
- Wednesday, April 29: Watch Day 1
- Thursday, April 30: Watch Day 2
- Friday, May 1: Watch Day 3
- Saturday, May 2: Watch the Finals
Thank You!
We are incredibly grateful for the support that made this season possible. Whether you donated, mentored, or cheered from the sidelines, you are a part of this victory. We look forward to representing our community and sharing our progress with you throughout the week.
Go Microchips & Queso!
