Back Again!

Team 100 2012 RobotFor the last nine years, I have taken off the first six weeks of the year to mentor a local high school robotics team http://www.team100.org  It is FIRST Robotics, an international program for high school students, designed to bring the passion and excitement of team sports to science and technology.  Basically, the kids are given six weeks to design, prototype, and build a 120 lb. robot that can function on its own and by remote control to perform a challenging game against other teams.  As one of the team’s mentors, I teach the kids how to weld, and how to use shop tools and machines.   It is a very intense six weeks but for many it is a life changing experience.  Over and over again I have seen shy, aimless kids find their passion, friends, and a career path. 

Now the robot is finished, and the team is ready for the competitions in March and April.  And I am heading back to the studio…