Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1 What is FIRST Robotics Competition?

Combining the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. We call Robotics Competition the ultimate Sport for the Mind. High-school student participants call it "the hardest fun you’ll ever have." Under strict rules, limited resources, and an intense six-week time limit, teams of students are challenged to raise funds, design a team "brand", hone teamwork skills, and build and program industrial-size robots to play a difficult field game against like-minded competitors. It’s as close to real-world engineering as a student can get. Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team. Each season ends with an exciting Championship.

2 I don't know anything about robotics. Can I still join?

The really cool thing about FIRST Robotics Competition is…all skill levels are welcomed and needed, technical or non-technical. Read more about team basics, time frame, commitment, and skills required. Read more

3 Are there any scholarship opportunities?

A big advantage to participating in FIRST is gaining access to millions in college scholarships made available by colleges, universities, and corporations who support FIRST. This is exclusive financial help open only to FIRST team members, giving them a competitive leg up on other students seeking educational funds.

4 How can I become a sponser?

We'd be happy to accept your sponsorship. Click here or go to the sponsor link at the top of the page to view more information.

5 What are the roles on the team

The roles for every team are different, but for our team it is very simple. Each role does there designated duties as well as help each other where needed. Typical roles include mechanical, electrical, programming, and designing.

6 How can I join the team?

Contact Mr. Shuman and arrange to show up at one of our practices. You must be attending highschool or collegiate.

7 How can I contact the team?

If you wish to contact the team, click here or go to the contact link at the top of the page.

8 What is expected from team members?

Team members are required to show up everyday during build season, be on time (with some exceptions), work efficiently and you should never have a free moment (again with some exceptions), respect your peers, and learn something.

9 What is the most important part of build season?

The most important part of build season (at least to our team) is showing up and giving the team the dedication you promised when you first signed up. Another important part of build season is working and doing what is needed. Also building the robot is pretty important.

10 How long is given to build the robot?

We are given 6 weeks.

11 What is a mechanum wheel?

Mechanum wheels are wheels that have rolles on them that allow the robot, or vehicle to move in every direction. Each roller has an axis of rotation that is 45°

12 What is a holonamic drive train?

It is a drive train that uses wheels that can move in any direction.

13 Why do robotics?

It is an intresting thing to learn and can be used later in life if you want to go into a career in this field.

14 What is a robot?

FIRST defines a robot in the Steamworks guide book as an electromechanical assembly built by the FIRST Robotics Competition Team to perform an array of tasks.