FRC in Idaho and Utah - Now the Intermountain West Region

On behalf of FIRST, I am pleased to announce an exciting new chapter for FIRST Robotics Competition in Idaho and Utah. Beginning in the 2026 -2027 season, the two previously separate annual Regional Events will be combined into a single, jointly hosted Intermountain West Regional Event. This unified regional event will rotate annually between Idaho and Utah, ensuring that both communities continue to share in hosting and showcasing this premier event.

This decision reflects a shared commitment to strengthening robotics opportunities across both states. By combining resources, volunteers, financial supporters, and teams, the program will offer a more robust and sustainable experience for participants. Bringing our communities together will enhance collaboration, elevate the level of play, and create a more dynamic environment for students to learn, compete, and grow.

The Intermountain West Region will foster a strong local presence, with teams from Idaho and Utah forming the core of the event while continuing to welcome participation from neighboring states and international countries. This balance will help preserve the regional character of the competition while maintaining the diversity and excitement that come from broader participation.

The 2027 Intermountain West Regional Event will occur March 24 – 27, 2027 at the Ford Idaho Center in Nampa, Idaho. The event will return to the traditional 3.5-day FIRST Robotics Competition Regional schedule.

I look forward to this next phase of growth and collaboration and am excited to see the positive impact it will have on teams, mentors, and communities across bo

th states.

I recognize that change can bring questions, and I am committed to making this transition as clear and inclusive as possible.

I will remain the Regional Director of the Intermountain West Region and will be building a new Advisory Board to bring together voices from both Idaho and Utah to move our program in this new direction.

I am confident that this new model will strengthen our ability to support teams, expand our reach, and deliver high-quality experiences for students across both states.

I can't wait to work with you during the 2026 - 2027 season!

Jenny Zachry

Regional Director

FIRST Robotics Competition, Intermountain West Region