GOFIRST 2014 Summer Robotics Summit

[cadandcookies]

GOFIRST's Summer Robotics Summit - SRS for short - is an annual event held mid-summer for FRC teams looking to build off of the previous season into the next. SRS was started in 2012 as an outlet for higher-level topics that are valuable, but never fit elsewhere. One major goal of SRS has therefore been to bring in highly-qualified speakers not simply to lecture, but to break down complicated subjects and to help advance the Minnesota robotics community. Addressing the evolving needs of the Minnesota robotics community, SRS targets not only Minnesota FIRST Robotics Competition and FIRST Tech Challenge teams but also University of Minnesota students and the general public. Designed to help students and hobbyists build robotics understanding and skills, the summit examines and clarifies higher-level topics in FIRST, helping build teams. The event fosters discussion on a variety of topics ranging from mechanical engineering to programming and even non-engineering sessions not normally focused on during the build season or at events like Minnesota Splash. This year's SRS will be held on July 12 at the STSS building on the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities campus. The cost is $7 in advance (via EventBee) or $9 at the door. RSVP closes on June 30th at 11 PM.

You can find out more about the event at our website, and the schedule may be found here. If you are interested in purchasing tickets for yourself or your team, you may do so here.

If you have any questions about the event or GOFIRST, you can PM any of the three organizers who are active on Chief Delphi: Myself, Nick Hammes (nfhammes), or Evan Hochstein (Wiifi). Or alternatively just post to the thread and one of us will get back to you. We're looking forward to a third excellent SRS!

[cadandcookies]

We're very close to finalized schedules, and we have some really great presentations lined up. Whether you want to learn techniques for effectively using CAD software from PTC's Todd Craft or want to learn about the new control system with Team 2177, we have a presentation for you! Here's a few of my favorite new sessions we'll be having at this year's SRS:

Software Engineering and Robotics
Preparing for Your Judging Presentation (FTC)
Diversifying Your Assets (Recruitment)
Effectively Using CAD
Managing Formal Relationships as a Team
Starting a Successful FTC Team
Effective Use of 3D Printing

There will also be a new "Lightning Talks" session with presentations from Boston Scientific, Target, and Skyline Exhibits on topics relative to robotics and design.

We look forward to seeing all sorts of Minnesota teams at SRS!

[cadandcookies]

The RSVP deadline has been extended to July 5th-- reminder that tickets bought online are only $7, while tickets at the door are $9, so it's definitely worth it if you know you'll be coming!

You can get tickets here!