Here are some answers addressing the common questions we hear from fellow community members, and curious students on the internet!
We will be constantly updating this page to make sure every voice can be heard and answered!
What is FIRST Robotics Competition?
The FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is an international high school robotics competition where teams of students, guided by mentors, work together to design, build, and program industrial-sized robots to compete in challenges. The competition emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and technical skills, inspiring students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
What types of roles are available on the team?
Sparkling H2O Robotics (FRC 8729) is split up into 3 subteams. Software, Mechanical, and Business & Outreach. Software members specialize programming the robot in Java, ensuring that our mighty machine works both autonomously and manually. Mechanical team members design and physically construct the robot, guaranteeing that it is sturdy and complex for competition use. Last but not least, the Business & Outreach members manages sponsorships, branding, finance, media, community engagement, and everything non-technical related! 😀
Every subteam is equally as important to contribute to the overall success of our team. For more information about the team, make sure to check out our socials linked on the "About" page of this website!
What are the benefits of participating in an FRC team?
Participating in an FRC (FIRST Robotics Competition) team provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to engage in real-world applications of engineering and programming. Through the process of designing, building, and coding robots to complete complex tasks, students gain practical, hands-on experience that goes far beyond traditional classroom learning. They learn how to use professional tools, software, and techniques, such as CAD, Java, and electrical wiring capabilities, preparing them for future careers in STEM fields.
What is the general weekly time commitment?
The weekly time commitment generally depends on specific subteam scheduling and work load.
During Off-season, most subteams aim for a 2 hour meeting hosted on either weekend day.
During Build-season, all subteams may have extra time commitments during weekdays to ensure the robot is fully completed before competition starts. In most cases, the duration may span 2 to 6 hours cumulatively per week!!
Is there anywhere else I can get more information?
Good Question! Sparkling H2O will always be active and posting on our Instagram Page (found under the "Contact Us" Page), with a lot of information and funny content posted! Specific past year team information can be found at our LinkTree (found under the "Contact Us" Page).
How can I join the team / What are the requirements necessary to join the team?
Every year, registration information will be released around May~June on our socials (mainly Instagram)! Applicants will be required to fill out a Google Form, as well as pick a preferred time slot for interview. Results will be released around Late June~Early July!
No previous experience or requirements in any subteam is needed when applying to join the team. Throughout the season, you will learn and be taught by experienced team leads to complete tasks to the best of your abilities!
When looking through applicants, we are looking for passionate individuals who are willing to contribute to the team by attending meetings, demonstrating hard-working ethics, and open-minded personalities to hear everyone's opinions. 🙂
We also host open houses for our build season robot during June! Feel free to register and meet some of us in-person and we'd be more than communicate for any questions or concerns!
If I'm not old enough to apply for FRC, how can I be involved with FIRST?
If you're under the required age limit (Ages 14-18) for FRC, you can still be involved with FIRST by registering for the FLL (First Lego League) Programs (Ages 4-14) under the "Workshops & Programs" Page for an equivalent robotics experience to your associated age!
How can I become a Sponsor?
If you would like to become a sponsor, please email us at [email protected] and we'd be more than happy to communicate further details for collaboration. We provide different services accordingly to the collaboration allocation funds!
Full Sponsorship Package and More Details can be found on the "Sponsorship" Page if interested.
