Salutations.
If you're planning on getting into combat robotics, PM or email me, or just ask here. I have plenty of experience and competitions under my belt and am willing/know plenty of people who are willing to assist another person into the game.
There is a very high concentration of builders in California as well as tournaments. You should have plenty of places to play.
Here's something to start you off:
http://forums.delphiforums.com/therfl Robot Fighting League's forum.