Air Capital Showdown Middle School Signature Event

📌 Event Details

Season: 2026-2027 Season

Code: ACH20265523

Timezone: America/Chicago

Event Dates: 12/03/2026 - 12/05/2026

Registration: 08/31/2026 - 11/23/2026

💳 Payment Deadline: 11/23/2026

📍 Location

Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center

225 W Douglas Ave

Wichita, KS 67202

🗺️ View on Google Maps

Eligible Grade Levels: Middle School

📋 General Information

Welcome to the Air Capital Showdown Sponsored by NWI Aerostructures

Get ready for takeoff! The Air Capital Showdown is touching down in Wichita, Kansas, and we're inviting YOUR robotics team to be a part of history! Prepare for an electrifying competition that will test your skills, ignite your passion, and showcase the future of robotics in the heart of the "Air Capital of the World."

What is the Air Capital Showdown?

The Air Capital Showdown is a Signature Event designed to bring together talented teams from across the World for an unforgettable experience. This isn't just about robots; it's about collaboration, innovation, and the thrill of head-to-head competition. We're building a tradition, and we want you to be a part of this exciting event!

Why Wichita, Kansas?

Wichita is a hub of innovation, engineering, and aerospace excellence. As the "Air Capital," our city breathes technology and ingenuity, making it the perfect backdrop for a high-octane robotics event. You'll be competing in a city that's home to aviation pioneers, a vibrant culture, and a community eager to witness the next generation of robotic masterminds.

What to Expect:

• Intense Competition: Prepare for thrilling matches, strategic alliances, and unforgettable moments as teams battle for supremacy.
• Showcase Your Skills: This is your chance to demonstrate your team's engineering prowess, programming expertise, and strategic thinking.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow robotics enthusiasts, mentors, and professionals who share your passion for STEM.
• Explore Wichita: Take advantage of your time in our dynamic city! Discover local attractions, delicious food, and the unique spirit of the Air Capital.
• Memories That Last: Be a part of the Air Capital Showdown and create lasting memories with your team.

Venue Information:

We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Century II to host this year’s Air Capital Showdown!

This iconic venue in the heart of Wichita will be the stage for an unforgettable event celebrating competition, community, and the spirit of Robotics. Get ready for high-energy matchups and thrilling performances!

Get Ready to Fly!

The Air Capital Showdown promises to be an event like no other. We are committed to providing a well-organized, exciting, and inspiring competition for all participants. Start preparing your robots, refining your strategies, and get ready to leave your mark on the first-ever Air Capital Showdown!

We can't wait to welcome your team to Wichita and the Air Capital Showdown! Let the innovation begin!

⚠️ Emergency Info

In the event of any emergency or bad weather, we will post updates to RECFevents.org and email coaches. 

🧳 Travel Information

Coming Soon:  Accommodation recommendations and discounts

🗓️ Agenda

Thursday December 3rd

5:00 PM Doors open and Check In Begins

7:00 PM Inspections Begin 

Friday December 4th

7:30 AM Doors open and Check In Begins

7:45 AM Inspections Begin 

9:00 AM Drivers Meeting 

9:30 AM Qualifications Matches begin 

12:00 PM  Lunch Break

1:00 PM  Qualifications Resume

5:00 PM Qualifications conclude

5:30 PM Venue closes

Saturday December 5th

7:30 AM Venue Open 

8:30 AM Qualifications Continue 

12:00 PM Lunch Break

1:00 PM Qualification Continues

2:30 PM Alliance Selection

4:00 PM Awards

⚙️ Judging Format

Digital Engineering Notebook Submissions / In-Person Team Interviews: Team interviews will be conducted in-person at the event. Engineering notebooks will be submitted digitally for evaluation via a link provided by our event partner or judge advisor. Submission deadline will be communicated to coaches at least 1 week ahead of the event date.

🏆 Awards

💵 Refund Policy

If the Event Partner cancels/postpones the event: 

• A refund of $240.00 per paid team will be issued should the event be cancelled.

If a Coach/Mentor completes registration for the event then chooses to withdraw or not attend: 

• No refund will be issued.