User talk:Burg Robotics

WILLIAMSBURG ROBOTICS TEAM
Hello, welcome to Williamsburg FTC website! The Williamsburg robotics team is coached by Kevin Wilkinson, Williamsburg's STEM teacher, and Krystle Stehno, Williamsburg's math teacher. Our mentors include Dustan Hahn, an engineer from Kinze Manufacturing, Will Stoltenberg, a computer programmer, and Molly Williams, a former FTC member who specializes in PR and marketing.

The Williamsburg FTC enjoys a history deep in tradition. It's a community that brings students and educators together to create an environment of life long learning, achievement, and excellence. Williamsburg High School's FTC is highly valued and vigorously supported.

FTC stands for FIRST Tech Challenge FIRST stands for "for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology

What is FIRST Tech Challenge? It’s way more than building robots. FIRST Tech Challenge teams are challenged to design, build, program, and operate robots to compete in a head-to-head challenge in an alliance format. Participants call it “the hardest fun you’ll ever have!” Guided by adult Coaches and Mentors, students develop STEM skills and practice engineering principles (like keeping an engineering notebook), while realizing the value of hard work, innovation, and sharing ideas. The robot kit is reusable from year-to-year and can be programmed using a variety of languages, including Java. Teams also must raise funds, design and market their team brand, and do community outreach for which they can win awards. Participants have access to tens of millions of dollars in college scholarships. Each season concludes with Super-Regional Championships and an exciting FIRST Championship.

The Impact of FTC The positive impact on FIRST Tech Challenge participants is gratifying and well documented. Over 86% have more interest in doing well in school and 87% are more interested in attending college. 2016 FIRST Tech Challenge Impact Infographic FIRST Tech Challenge teams get to: Design, build, and program robots Apply real-world math and science concepts Develop problem-solving, collaboration, and team-building skills Build and become strong leaders Understand and practice Gracious Professionalism™ Cooperate and compete in alliances at tournaments Compete for awards on and off the field Participate in a tiered competition that culminates at the FIRST Championship Qualify for millions of dollars in college scholarships Have fun! (FIRST Tech Challenge Impact youtube video-

Team Basics The really cool thing about FIRST Tech Challenge is being part of a team. All skill levels are welcomed and needed, technical and non-technical.

When Does the FIRST Tech Challenge Happen? The FIRST Tech Challenge season starts in May, when teams generally form and registration opens. Season kick-off is in early September when the season's game is announced. The design and build season runs from September to January. Tournament season varies by region and can begin as early as October and continues through April. State and Regional Tournaments advance teams to Super-Regional Championship Tournaments, and winners earn spots at FIRST Championship at the end of April. There are also many off-season events where teams participate, strategize, hone their skills, learn new technology, meet other teams, and have fun!

What is the Time Commitment? Mentors or adult Volunteers meet with their team at least once per week during the build and competition season (September - April). Many mature teams also meet throughout the school year, and some compete in off-season events during the summer. You, your family, and your available free time can decide together how much time you can devote to the program. As a team member, the same applies. Students meet at least once per week from Mid-September through April. Like any sport or other after-school activity, the more time you invest, the better you will become at your task.

Are Any Special Skill Required? All skill levels are welcomed and needed, technical and non-technical. Teams need all kinds of skills to succeed, so what are you good at? Chances are we have a job for you. And we’ll probably teach you a few new ones while you’re with us. Student and adult team members are encouraged to bring any skills they already have, like programming, electronics, metalworking, graphic design, web creation, public speaking, videography, and many more. FIRST Tech Challenge welcomes every student, with or without special skills.

The Event Experience Hard work pays off! Each FIRST Tech Challenge season culminates with local and regional events where qualifying teams compete for awards and a spot in the FIRST Championship. Events at every level offer students an amazing experience as they celebrate their hard work, have fun, make new friendships, and are exposed to ideas and ideology that will enhance their lives for decades to come. Every participant is eligible to apply for college scholarships! FIRST Tech Challenge events are amazing, inspiring experiences. Where else can you make new friends, share ideas, solve problems on the fly, compete like crazy, and get pumped up over technology all while having the time of your life? At FIRST Tech Challenge events, students realize more than ever that FIRST is all about teamwork, sharing, helping others, and respect.

Burg Robotics (talk) 23:32, 5 October 2017 (UTC)