Robotics team - Questions & Answers

This week I had so many wonderful people come to talk to me and members of Shorewood's Team Pronto at the Seattle Regional Robotics competition.  We would love to thank all the people who came to cheer on our students and Hank. 

During the event I took the time to ask people who had never seen a robotic event before what they thought of this craziness and here are some of the comments, questions and my answers.

• "This is way more fun then watching students try to hurt each other on a football field"
• "I can't believe students created a robot" answer: Yes, they did.
• "The governor and members of state senate were here it must be very important"
• "This is the most positive event I have ever been to with teenagers"
• "My granddaughter didn't want to come to the event - she thought it was for boys. Now that she is here, she is looking forward to being on a robotic team in high school."

Hank poses with members of the Shorewood Team Pronto

"I have been an engineer for 30 years and am about to retire. How can I get involved in this?" 

Answer: Contact USFIRST, find a team in your area, and get ready to have some fun.

"This must be so costly for your school" 

Answer: No, not really. Sponsors and mentors pick up almost all of the costs. Students will pay more for a yearbook then for being a part of this team.

"All this put together in 6 weeks of build - how cool!" 

Answer: Yes, 6 weeks and thousands of hours of effort by the students.

"Wish this was a part of my high school" 

Answer: Don't we all. But come help out a team now - it's not too late. Show the students we do care about them and their future.

"How do I sign up my child for this?" 

Answer: contact USFIRST robotics, then get involved at your child's school to get a team started.

"Where is all the media coverage? Who do we contact to get this covered on TV?" 

Answer: I have been trying for years - got any ideas?

"How can I find a team in my town that does this, that I may help them out?" 

Answer: contact USFIRST robotics.

"You should be proud of your kids" 

My answers: I am proud of all kids involved whether on my team or another team. They are our future and from where I am sitting it looks so bright to me.