[StAxis]

Being a lead can be a stressful position, especially in FRC where we only have 6 weeks to build and sometimes only 6 minutes to make a fix in the middle of a competition. I'll give you some advice that a wise friend once gave me when I was putting too much on my own shoulders.

When things get stressful, focus on building your team. You've got a lot of people around you who want to help you. Don't take too much stress on yourself, as a lead it can feel like it's all on you, but whenever you feel like that, remember to build your team.

This year we took a big leap in giving a lead mechanical position to a first year student. We did this because, even though he is new, he has shown dedication and hasn't been afraid to communicate and ask questions. Trust yourself, you were chosen for a reason, and when you feel like you don't know what you're doing, don't hesitate to ask. Us mentors really are here to answer your questions and help, and we love doing it!

Read everything you can, there are dozens of fantastic teams with resources out there (254 technical binders, 1114 has lots, 2056 Ways to Inspire conference presentations, 148 and JVN's design document, just to name a few) and reading those will prepare you pretty well from the technical side.

I'm sure you'll do great, and remember, the greater FIRST community is always here to help out too!