The FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Midwest Regional is an intense three-day competition showcasing robots developed and operated by dozens of high school teams from all over the world. The Midwest Regional was first held in 1997 at Harper Community College in Palatine, Illinois with 38 teams attending. Since that time it has grown to be one of the most competitive regionals in the country, with many of its winners going on to win the Championship Event. It is now held in Chicago at the UIC Pavilion. The Midwest Regional's goal is to show that science and engineering can be exciting and fun by providing a spectator-friendly competition environment that has the feel of both a major sporting event and a rock concert, complete with special lighting, music, a large video wall, and energetic announcers.