What Is a Chapter?
A chapter is the foundational organizational unit of FTAD. Each chapter is affiliated with a single school and serves as the administrative home for one or more competition teams.
The chapter lead — typically a student officer supported by a faculty advisor — is responsible for team registration, event coordination, and communication with FTAD administration. Chapters compete at regional qualifying events and, if they advance, at the national championship.
Unlike individual clubs, a chapter can field multiple teams across different competition categories within the same season.
Level 1
Chapter
Level 2
Teams
Level 3
Events
The Startup Process
Submit Application
Complete the FTAD chapter application with your faculty advisor and at least five interested students.
Charter Approval
FTAD reviews your application and issues a formal charter once all requirements are confirmed.
Team Registration
Your chapter is live. Register your competition teams and begin the season preparation process.
What You Need to Start
We keep requirements minimal and honest. Here is exactly what you need before submitting an application.
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A faculty advisor willing to supervise
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A minimum of 5 interested students
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School administration approval
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Completed FTAD chapter application
What FTAD Provides
Approved chapters receive the full FTAD onboarding package and ongoing support throughout the season.
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Full onboarding materials and chapter handbook
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Technical resources and spec documentation
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Access to a community of peer chapters
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Dedicated FTAD admin support