Local robotics team All Wired Up is hosting an open house on Saturday, January 25, from 11 am to 3 pm in the team workshop at 320 Crittenden Street in downtown Groveland. The team invites all local residents, especially students from 8-12 grade interested in participating in the current robot “build season”. The team includes students from any and all schools in south Lake county including home school or other school types.
The team will participate in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) sponsored nationally by For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST). The team is recruiting additional members interested in science, technology, engineering, arts and math. “We won’t only build robots” stated Lead Mentor Mark Vitek. “The team is looking for 8 th to 12 th grade students in a variety of fields. We have opportunities for students to contribute in graphic design, social media, programming, photography, mechanical and electrical engineering, public relations, marketing and much more.”
The City of Groveland has provided support and workshop space. Other active sponsors include Rockwell Automation, NASA, and Mom’s Guide to Robotics. The team has also been awarded grants to cover the thousands of dollars needed to purchase the robot parts from the authorized suppliers.
The team is currently meeting Monday through Friday from 6 to 9 PM and Saturdays from 10-3 at the workshop. This is build season so the team is very active and involved in the assembly and programming of the robot for the spring 2020 competition. Participation is flexible and fits with both the students and mentors schedules. Mentors are always present during the meetings to ensure the safety of the students and help keep the build progressing. “Participation provides students with options to complete volunteer hours for Bright Futures scholarships” according to both Mr. Vitek and mentor Lee Johnson. They added, “FIRST has over $84 million in scholarships available to participants and involvement enhances college and future employment opportunities as well.”
The All Wired Up team invites all area 8-12th grade students, parents, teachers, professionals, and potential mentors to join them at the Open House Saturday. The workshop, tools, students and the robot being built will be there for all to meet and see.
Team info: FIRST FRC Team 8057, All Wired Up is a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization. On Facebook “all wired up – frc team 8057” link HERE or website allwireduprobotics.home.blog/ 320 Crittenden Street, Groveland, FL 352-247-7361
