I've lived in Del Rio; I understand how isolated you are out there on the border. Have you contacted any of the teams in San Antonio? Even if some of your team members can't make a trip there, you can still make contact with a team there and connect with them via skype. This link will allow you to find some teams in SAT.
http://www.usfirst.org/whatsgoingon
Do you have access to an Ipad, Ipod touch or an Iphone? Team 1114 has a great app called "Simbot." It has info on a sturdy kit bot frame and many design and organization resources. If you haven't seen it, you should check it out. It's a great resource for rookie teams.
Do you have an engineering mentor? I know there are a hand full of engineers with the factories, and some of the pilots out at the base may be engineers. Ask around. If you know anyone out at the base (pilot, maintenence, ground crew, simulator instructor) I would ask them for help, or ask if they know someone that may be interested in helping.
I know that the factories there have some capabilities, but it's probably not easy to get an "in" with someone there. The best thing to do in that situation is to network; maybe you don't know a contact with a machine shop but if the whole team asks family and friends, someone may step forward that can help. I move away almost 7 years ago, but I'll do some digging and see if I can find anyone that can help you. I'll send you a PM if I find any assistance for you. It's a small world, had we stayed in Del Rio my sons would be a senior and 8th grader.
*I've just checked out your team website, and it looks like you have a nice collection of mentors from the community and from the base. It looks like your team is off to a good start. **
"GP" isn't a gauge, it's a target. - Rich Kressly [more] 
Just a Random Question...
13-02-2012, 18:45
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