What have you learned from FIRST?

[davidthefat]

1. Current Grade Level (if applicable):
Junior
2. Topic/Skill (Be as specific as possible - don't put "sensor" or "programming" - say "wiring a touch sensor" or "programming the PID in Labview"):
Lead Programmer; just regulate the whole programming group, "set" the pace, and "pick up" after other programmer. Like debugging and cleaning up code. Then do my own thing.

The only thing I really learned that I would take with me is working with others. Honestly it is the first "team" project that I have ever participated in regarding programming. I still have to learn.

3. Years of Experience:
2nd year of FIRST; 5+ years of C++ experience and 2nd year of Java experience
4. Proficiency (novice, beginner, intermediate, advanced, expert):
Beginner/Intermediate when it comes to robots in general
5. Learning Resource (URL, Youtube video, book, expert, etc.):
Self taught C++ through books and learned about robots just by asking others and through experience (mistakes )

[ratdude747]

1. Current Grade Level (if applicable):
Senior
2. Topic/Skill (Be as specific as possible - don't put "sensor" or "programming" - say "wiring a touch sensor" or "programming the PID in Labview"):
This might be a long list.

On my old team, 1747:

Lathe work- between robotics and shop classes I really got good at it. At least one mentor claims I am/was a "lathe magician". Without robotics, a lot of my best work would have never existed, nor would the knowhow and experience to produce them.

On my current team, 2783:

Carpentry/construction- I now know much more about construction and carpentry, as we had to quasi-remodel the warehouse we were given as shop space.

On both:

Electronics- other than faded memories of a couple radio shack kits, all of my now vast knowledge of electronics would have never existed. What robotics didn't teach it did inspire me to go out and learn. This includes pursuing a degree in electrical engineering next fall.

There is more but the list would go on and on for a long way.

3. Years of Experience:
4th year of FIRST/FRC.
4. Proficiency (novice, beginner, intermediate, advanced, expert):
overall (minus CAD/Web design): Expert. uber-expert on certain topics.
5. Learning Resource (URL, Youtube video, book, expert, etc.):
Learned on the team, school classes, online forums, self taught.