Henry,
This is a wonderfully challenging task you have been given.
The first decision you will have to make is which programming language you will be using: C++ or LabVIEW.
If you use LabVIEW, I've created a video blog which will take you through many of the required steps. Check out our blog at
www.LVMastery.com/FRCTipJar
All the best,
Ben Zimmer