[Mr V]

There is certainly a lot of synergy between an auto shop program and FRC. The modern automobile is far more advanced than any of the robots we build in FIRST yet the use many similar concepts and technology in their operation. As a former professional automotive technician I could draw many parallels in operation of a modern automobile and a FRC robot. As Jason noted a lot of the work of an automotive technician involves diagnosing computer systems which requires extensive knowledge of programming strategy to quickly diagnose a problem successfully. A lot of the mechanical skills and concepts also have similar parallels. He can certainly transfer a lot of skills that he currently teaches. Assembly techniques, wiring, trouble shooting, and ensuring that the robot is designed for quick repairs between matches something very important in the district system.

In our state we have at least one program ran by the auto shop teacher and a number of others that at least use some of the auto shop facilities from using some of the metal working tools or at least the large open space for testing.

Send me an PM with you and your friend's email and I'll forward them and your story along to the auto shop teacher in our area that runs an FRC program and see if he is willing to send him an email sharing his experiences.

It is not too late to start a team for this season. If nothing else you certainly should invite him to some of your meetings throughout the season and invite him to a competition. We are working on having more VIP tours at the district events this season with the focus on potential new teams, volunteers and mentors instead of just politicians and large donors.