[wendymom]

Your team sounds like its in pretty good shape. We have a drill press, band saw and sander. We struggle every year to find a build space. Getting paid...wow....it costs me money. Our students pay for their own travel as do all the mentors. We have fundraisers where they can try to cover some of the costs....but mostly they shell out.

Try to get someone from a machine shop or a metal supply place on board with your team. Show them pictures....take the robot by. Once they are as excited as you are.....they might cut you a break.