Looking for Advice from Veterans

[mackeycam15]

Hello! Blackfoot High School in Blackfoot, Idaho is in the process of creating an FTC team. I was wondering if there are any veteran teams that had some advice for us getting started, especially in such a rural, farming-oriented community.

We have about 6 students, and I am acting as an unofficial mentor. I am currently involved in a community FRC team elsewhere, which is why I will not be competing with my peers. While I have experience with FIRST in general, what should we know about FTC specifically?

Thanks everyone!

[GeeTwo]

I don't have any experience with FTC, but in addition to students, the three things you need for the team are mentors, facilities, and sponsors (resorted for my understanding of FTC vs FRC). In a rural area, you are unlikely to have traditional tech companies around (though if you do, go after them for all three!) Consider your local resources carefully and creatively. Is there someone locally who is known for inventing, creating, adapting, or improving mechanical (or computer) devices? Are there local companies or individuals driven by giving back to the community? Is there a mechanic shop (whether cars, tractors, or other tools) that could sponsor a build site and possibly some mentoring or at least training? How about a general (building) contractor? They'll need to learn that 12V mobile systems use larger stranded wire than 120V buildings, but if you can build stuff, you can figure out how to build other stuff.

[EDesbiens]

but if you can build stuff, you can figure out how to build other stuff.

That sums almost everything about FRC :)