[Ivan Helmrich]

Thanks to all who responded so far.

Eric, really great ideas. It's true, engineers love to add their 2 cents. I hadn't even considered soliciting design suggestions. Very nice. Now I just have to find that not-so-well engineered robot to borrow. I like Nate's shadowing idea also, I'll throw that in for good measure along with a list of area teams that would like the help.

I'm in good shape with a robot (or two) and a few students available. They never fail to make the case for the program, but so far I've found that the program is sold but the activity of mentoring isn't. I guess I'm having trouble linking the two ideas with my coworkers.

My experience is backed up by Don's experience. (Thanks Don, I feel better knowing it's not just me.) I've gotten lots of great verbal responses from other engineers, but only a few will show up. This is great though, I have a few more ideas to try and plenty of time to prepare. Thanks again.