Robotics

FTC Competitive Robot — World Premier Event Qualifier

Led design and build of competitive FTC robot as founder & team captain. Rookie team qualified for World Premier Event in first season.

Overview

As founder and captain of FSA's first FTC (First Tech Challenge) team, I led the complete design, build, and competition strategy for our competitive robot. The project required integrating mechanical design, electrical systems, software development, and strategic gameplay. In our rookie season, the team qualified for the FTC World Premier Event and received the Control Award and Think Award at Georgia regionals.

Role

Team Founder, Captain & Lead Engineer — Pitched team formation to school, recruited 9 members, designed robot architecture, managed the build timeline, developed control software, and coordinated competition strategy.

Tech Stack

•Java (FTC SDK)
•Mechanical Design (CAD)
•3D Printing
•Motor Control Systems
•Sensor Integration
•Game Strategy Development
•Team Leadership & Project Management

Key Challenges

•Founding and building a team culture from scratch with no prior FTC experience
•Balancing mechanical design, software, and strategy within competition timeline
•Optimizing robot performance across multiple game objectives
•Managing team dynamics across 9 students from diverse backgrounds
•Adapting to rule changes and competition format in real time

Results

•Qualified for FTC World Premier Event in rookie season
•Control Award — Georgia FTC Robotics Regionals
•Think Award — Georgia FTC Robotics Regionals
•Dean's List Semi-Finalist recognition
•Built foundation for a now 14-member team in second season

Next Steps

•Developing advanced autonomous routines for second season
•Expanding team with new members and mentoring juniors
•Pursuing partnerships with robotics companies for professional development

Interested in learning more or collaborating on similar projects?

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