Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this event for?
SE/FMC is designed for adult mentors and potential mentors involved with FRC and FTC teams. Whether you are brand new to FIRST or have been mentoring for decades, there is something here for you. Students may not attend.
Where and when will this conference take place?
Saturday & Sunday - October 3 & 4, 2026
UF/IFAS Extension, Orange County
6021 S. Conway Rd, Orlando, FL 32812
Only four (4) mile from the Orlando International Airport!
Is there a deadline to register?
There is no deadline to register, however there is a max number of tickets we can sell due to space constraints. We have no idea when tickets will sell out, so purchase your ticket asap!
Do I have to be from the Southeast to attend?
Absolutely not! While we have a distinctly Southern spirit, mentors from across the country — and beyond — are warmly welcome. The more perspectives in the room, the better the conversations and the more we learn from each other.
Can I attend if I mentor an FTC team but not an FRC team?
Yes! SE/FMC proudly serves both FRC and FTC mentors. The FTC Technical track is built specifically with FTC teams in mind, and the Team Management track is highly applicable across both programs.
What is included in my registration fee?
Your registration covers attendance for both days, meals during the event, and a commemorative SE/FMC shirt.
What is the schedule for the conference?
A rough outline of the conference; will be posted here soon. Some specifics will only be found in the Slack Workspace.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. A limited number of scholarships are available for mentors who need financial assistance to attend. Contact us Wendy Austin at waustin@firstinspires.org for details and availability.
Can I transfer my ticket if I can no longer attend?
Yes — tickets are non-refundable but fully transferable. Simply contact us with the name and information of the person taking your spot before the event at southeasternfmc@gmail.com.
Can I present a session?
We would love to hear from you! SE/FMC is built on the expertise of the community. If you have knowledge, experience, or a perspective worth sharing, submit a session proposal. All skill levels and backgrounds are welcome — you don't have to be a veteran mentor to have something valuable to offer.
What if I'm a brand new mentor — will this be over my head?
Not at all. SE/FMC is one of the best places a new mentor can be. Sessions span all experience levels, and the community is genuinely welcoming and supportive. Many attendees to mentor conferences say it is exactly what they needed to find their footing.
Is this an official FIRST event?
SE/FMC is a volunteer-created and volunteer-run community event. It is not operated by or affiliated with FIRST HQ. We are simply passionate mentors who believe in investing in each other.
Will sessions be recorded or livestreamed?
No. SE/FMC is an in-person only experience. The magic of this event happens in the room — in the hallway conversations, the roundtables, and the connections made over meals. We believe that experience is worth showing up for.
What should I bring?
Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your willingness to share. A notebook never hurts or laptop if you prefer. Most importantly, bring an open mind — you never know which conversation will change how you mentor forever.