Who builds robots/where?
Both mentors (college students) and high-school students. We work at several locations including West Covina High School, our practice field in a local mall, Cal Poly Pomona University, and local sponsor shops.
Do you have dedicated space/machine shop?
Westfield has graciously provided us about 3000 square feet of space where we do most of our work and practice. However, there is no internet connection, poor lighting, and no A/C. We have a small space at the high school with our band saw, and milling machine. We also have access to the shops at Cal Poly Pomona, and the wood shop and a classroom at West Covina High. Most of the design work is done in a classroom at the high school, where we have internet services and dry erase boards, and decent lighting and A/C.
Do you rely on corp. sponsors to build?
We have sponsors do all our welding while we assist with fixturing and preparation. That alone is typically a week-long operation. Another local sponsor makes all our shafts and axles. Our partner team 254 handles a majority of the CNC machining work. Simple parts and assembly, we do in-house.
Who manages the team/students?
The team is managed entirely by college students: three from Cal Poly Pomona, one from Cal State Long Beach (masters program), and one from UC Riverside. There is a teacher advisor at the high-school who leads the school-club meetings.
How involved is your school?
We used to be very well funded by the high school. Due to budget cuts and facilities needing improvements, the team no longer receives any funding from the school. We have had difficulty getting teachers and students involved. We are fortunate to be provided a dedicated room.
How involved are your students parents?
Many of our students are involved in other school activities, so their participation varies. I'd say this year we had about 7 dedicated students, and about 8 others who would come every now and then. We have a few parents who provide lunches and rides, but are not otherwise involved extensively.
What is your team's operating budget?
This year, our budget was approximately $9,000.
How do you get compensated, besides the obvious joy of watching your students grow?
In a typical season, I estimate my involvement personally costs me over $1000. I would enjoy seeing a day where I am financially compensated for what I spend to be involved.
What is your typical build season schedule?
January through competition, every week day 3pm to at least 10pm (often midnight). Weekends, 1 or 2 pm to midnight and later. Mentors often work full days during welding week, beginning in the morning, if they have no class.
I think these questions just barely begin to even scratch the surface of many teams' inner-workings, so feel free to ask more.
