Coaches Chat this Thursday at 7:00 pm
Our October Coaches Chat is scheduled for next Thursday at 7:00 pm. Please make sure to have one adult from your team attend.
To join the meeting click here
PNW FRC Mentor Meetup – Sunday December 6th, 2026
Join us on Sunday, December 6th, at 12:00 PM at the FIRSTWA Fieldhouse in Kent for a PNW FRC Mentor Meetup.
The goal of this meetup is to share perspectives on some technical topics while building stronger relationships among mentors and coaches from FRC teams across the Pacific Northwest. We’ll start with two panel discussions focused on technical topics, with time for Q&A after each session. After the panels, we’ll break into smaller, informal roundtable discussions where mentors can connect and share ideas on topics that are most relevant to their teams.
We recognize that there’s no perfect time to schedule these meetups and that conflicts are inevitable. With the 2027 FRC kickoff approaching, we chose December 6th to bring mentors together before the new season gets underway. If you are coming from out of town, there are several hotels nearby.
Water, soda, and light snacks will be provided. You’re also welcome to bring your own alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages. Because alcohol will be available, all mentors must be at least 21 years old.
Panel Discussions
Mentors from multiple teams will participate in the panels, bringing a variety of experiences and perspectives to each discussion.
Panel 1: Improving Reliability in the Electrical System
This discussion will focus on practical ways to improve electrical system reliability and prevent failures on the field. Topics will include battery best practices for storage, charging, use, and testing, as well as current limits. We’ll also discuss CAN bus and power wiring techniques to minimize failures and how to keep sensors and vision systems reliably connected and powered throughout a match. We’ll also talk about future considerations in preparation for the SystemCore.
Panel 2: Workflow Efficiency: From Concept to Finished Robot
How can we move from an initial concept to a competition ready robot efficiently without sacrificing quality or reliability? We’ll discuss design considerations that improve maintainability and ease of assembly, along with strategies for keeping the build process on schedule. Topics will include managing COTS parts, deciding what to keep in stock versus purchasing on demand, and using COTS components to save time and reduce manufacturing demands. We’ll also discuss how options for custom part manufacturing, including sponsors and fabrication services such as Fabworks and SendCutSend, as well as project management challenges like deadlines, design changes, and unforeseen roadblocks. Finally, we’ll discuss how organizing the build space can save time and help minimize mistakes.
Roundtable:
The current plan for the roundtable will be to break into smaller groups based on interest. You are encouraged to share some roundtable topics on registration form.
How to Attend
Please fill out the Google Form if you plan to attend. We encourage you to share this invitation with other mentors on your team so they can join the conversation, too.
If you have questions or suggestions for the meetup, please contact Darren Collins at dcollins@tahomasd.us.
We look forward to getting PNW mentors together to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and strengthen our robotics community before the 2027 season begins.
2027 Boeing Manufacturing Student Development Program
Have a student interested in the manufacturing side of aerospace? This Boeing program allows rising high school seniors to build real-world manufacturing and industrial maintenance experience in a paid, hand-on opportunity running from July 6th to August 19th 2027. Students may be assigned to either Everett, Renton, or Auburn sites and will learn skills such as mechanical assembly, electrical installation, blueprint reading, and Lean manufacturing. For more information, see https://boeing.avature.net/wamfgsdp (select “Current High School Junior” from the drop down at the bottom for full program description and application).
Prerequisites:
- Age 16+
- Rising senior, graduating in 2028
- Knowledge of shop tools and safety practices via a class or club
Application deadline: 11:59PM on 1/25/2027
Important Dates
10-29: FRC Coaches Chat
10-29: Unrestricted Regional and additional in district registration opens
11-5: Inter district registration opens
12-19: Bunny Bots
