Let's see...
- Machinery that is actually designed for metal (we work in our school's wood shop, so we mainly use handheld tools)
- Computers that are not blocked by the school server (no access to ZIP files
)
- Space. Lots and lots of space. (not such a big problem, because the gym is a 15-second walk away)
- An infinite supply of parts, especially metal beams, gears, sprockets, and wiring connectors (the name escapes me, but the things that go into the sides of Spike relays - electrical isn't my specialty)
- An environment in which time stands still within the shop (six weeks go by really quickly, don't they?)